Biltmore Farms Hotels

Hilton Asheville celebrates Mom!

2011-04-28T16:22:00.001-04:00

Hilton Asheville celebrates Mom!

At the Hilton Asheville, we want to honor all mothers! Show Mom how much you love her by treating her to a delicious Mother’s Day Brunch at Roux or a luxurious spa treatment at our Sensibilities Spa.

Our Sensibilities Spa Mother’s Day package begins with a Sweet Red Rose Facial. A potent blend of Bulgarian roses, rosehips, calendula and honey provide “exercise for the skin.” This stimulating treatment encourages circulation and strengthens capillaries to leave the skin’s tone and texture renewed. Following the facial, your mom will receive a Radiant Retreat Body Wrap, where she will experience the antioxidant properties of acai berry, ginger and plum, which fight free radicals and aid hydration while rice peptides and white clay purify the skin. Our Mother’s Day package is available for $199 and can be booked as an appointment through May 8th or may be bought as a gift certificate through May 8th to be used whenever the recipient would like to schedule.

Roux will be offering a special Mother’s Day Brunch, which is highlighted by a scrumptious buffet as well as a delightful selection of soups and salads, sandwiches and entrees. Below is the full menu. If you’re in Asheville for Mother’s Day, we hope you choose to spend it at the Hilton Asheville!

Mother’s Day Brunch Buffet 19.95
includes beverages, cooked to order eggs, omelets, waffles, pancakes and french toast, carved to order salmon florentine, pasta primavera with feta & olives, roasted potatoes, tarragon chicken salad, mixed green salad & watermelon gazpacho

Brunch Enhancement: add an 8 oz cut of slow cooked Prime Rib with au jus 6

Chef’s Kettles - our daily selection of soups 3/5
Smoked Salmon- toasted bagel, cream cheese, traditional garnishes 9
Roux House Salad - lemon-herb vinaigrette 5.95, grilled chicken 7.95, blackened salmon 8.95
Caesar Salad – shaved parmesan, focaccia croutons 5.95 grilled chicken 7.95, blackened salmon 8.95
Short stack and bacon – two fluffy cakes, maple syrup, whipped butter 7.50
French Toast – french batard, blueberry syrup and sour cream 8
Kitchen Sink Omelet – you name it we throw it in, extravagance is extra, home fries 9
Seared Salmon Bennie, tomato, poached egg* and hollandaise, home fries 13
Crab Cakes - jumbo lump, grilled nappa slaw 7/11
Steak and Eggs* - any style, hand cut fries, roasted tomatoes 15
10 oz Prime Rib – garlic mashed potatoes, grilled asparagus, au jus 18
Fish-n-Chips - beer batter, lemongrass tartar, spicy nappa slaw 8/12

Sandwiches
comes with choice of chips, hand cut fries, or grilled spicy nappa slaw (sub cup of soup 1.95)
Broken Yolk Sandwich* - bacon, tomato, cheddar, mayo, grilled sourdough bread 8
Roux Burger 8 oz angus beef, roasted red pepper, chevre, kaiser 8.95
Chicken Caprese - pesto mayo, fresh mozzarella, roasted tomato, grilled ciabatta 8.95
Chicken Salad Croissant – tarragon and sun dried cherries 8.95
Hot Turkey Club - texas toast, melted swiss, bacon, lettuce, tomato, and spicy marmalade 8.50

World Peace is coming to Asheville!

2011-04-27T15:34:00.004-04:00

On Wednesday May 4th, World Peace and Other Fourth Grade Achievements will be screened at the Diana Wortham Theater. Following the screening, there will be a Q&A session with the film’s star, John Hunter, followed by a regional education leadership dialogue.

WHEN: May 4, 2011 at 6:45 PM
WHERE: Diana Wortham Theatre

TICKETS: K-12 Educators: Free
Non-Educators: $16

To learn more about the film, as well as the screening, please visit WorldPeaceAvl.com.

Get Wild at the WNC Nature Center in Asheville

2011-02-21T14:49:00.005-05:00

The WNC Nature Center in Asheville is gearing up for a big year. The Nature Center is the best place for close up views of Otters, Foxes, Coyotes, as well as Gray and Red Wolves. Currently exhibits are being revamped for public viewing. Get ready, because this year there is a special surprise being unveiled, but this blogger has been sworn to silence. Here's a hint: Cute, but dangerous.

Check out the new Appalachian Friends Donor Garden and watch as the peacocks freely walk around. Also be sure to catch the annual interactive Butterfly Exhibit. There's a lot happening this year so be sure to visit them online and learn more.

If you're traveling from out of town be sure to check into these great hotels.

Valentine's Day Dinner in Asheville

2011-02-02T11:16:00.005-05:00

Love and romance are in the air as Valentine's Day in Asheville is quickly approaching. Make plans now to visit Roux, located in the Hilton Asheville Biltmore Park. For three days, February 12 - 14th, Roux will be serving a delicious menu crafted by our chef, Randy Dunn. Enjoy some of these delectable dishes.

Valentine's Weekend Dinner Menu

Soups: Mushroom Bisque and Oyster Stew

- Crab Avocado Stack - jumbo lump crab with a spicy aioli
- Lobster Un-Ravioli with garlicky spinach served in a creole alfredo sauce.
- Bibb Salad - shredded duck confit, dried cherries, gorgonzola and
smoked tomato vinaigrette.

- Filet with white truffle yukons, sherried mushroom brushetta
- Tuna 2-ways: Poké and flash fried, pommes frites, ginger aioli
- Pan Seared Breast of Chicken, sweet potato ravioli, peach demi
- Eggplant-Potato Pie with barley pilaf and winter vegetables

Mini Dessert Tray Sampler

Roux also offer a great selection of wines and local brews to complement your dining experience.

This menu will be served from 5:00 PM until 10:00 PM. Reservations are recommended. Please call 828-209-2715 to secure your table. Learn more about Roux on the web.

FringeArts Festival Returns to Asheville

2011-01-19T10:32:00.004-05:00

For the ninth year in a row the FringeArts Festival is returning to Asheville. There are three shows running from Thursday, January 20th until Sunday, January 23rd and are being held at multiple venues including the BeBe Theatre, Asheville Art Museum and Wedge in the River Arts District.

The Asheville Fringe Arts Festival provides artists with opportunities to explore the edges of their work, collaborate across genres and bring new and innovative performances to culturally adventurous audiences.

This year you can see performers such as Jim Julien and Kathy Myers who have been with Fringe from the beginning. Also see the antics of The Runaway Circus and the Loose Caboose. For a full listing of acts please visit the FringeArts Fest website.

Tickets for the events are $12 ($10 for seniors and students) per each of the three shows.

If you are traveling to the mountains and need a place to stay, please check out these great Asheville hotels.

Asheville for free

2011-01-13T15:22:00.004-05:00

If you're traveleing on a budget, then there are plenty of great thing to do for free in Asheville. Take a drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway which offers breathtaking vistas. Take a stroll downtown Asheville, through Bilmore Village or around Beaver Lake and if you're feeling more adventurous go hike the Appalachian mountains to search for a waterfall.

Throughout the year there are plenty of things to do that cost you absolutely nothing. The drum circle, the River Arts District Studio Stroll and countless street festivals (Bele Chere for example) are just a sampling of what you can do at no cost.

Visit the exploreasheville site to learn about more things you can do for free and check out their calendar of free activities. When planning your trip be sure to check out our great hotel offerings.

You can also visit our Doubletree Facebook Page. In our favorites section you can find 365 Things to do in Asheville. Be sure to "like" us while you're there and we'll keep you up to date on ativities going on in the Asheville area.

Save up to 50% at Biltmore

2011-01-06T16:55:00.005-05:00

Asheville always slows down a bit during the winter, but that means you can avoid crowds and take advantage of better deals around town. Biltmore is now offering up to 50% off their admission rate from January 1st through March 31st. Children 16 and under are admitted free with a paying adult. Plus tickets are good for two days so you can take the time to explore the home in detail. The gardens, winery and Antler Hill Village are also a great way to spend the day.

If you haven't eaten at one of the Biltmore restaurants you're really missing something great. My favorites are Deerpark and the Bistro. You really can't go wrong with either of those.

We also have great rates at hotels located conveniently next to the Biltmore. If you're interested in staying the night check out one of our great hotels.

Celebrate New Year's Eve in Asheville

2010-12-29T16:57:00.004-05:00

Coming to Asheville for New Years? Check out these shows recommended by the Asheville Citizen Times.

The Avett Brothers play a two-night stand Thursday-Friday at the Asheville Civic Center arena, and that promises to be the largest gathering anywhere in town.

Officially, it's sold out, though tickets can still be found at various online sites. The show will bring thousands of fans downtown, adding to the overall madness.

Another brother act

Sons of Ralph, one of the city's most popular bands, mixes bluegrass and rock New Year’s Eve at Jack of the Wood, 95 Patton Ave.

These boys are sure to pack the place, so get over there early, get something to eat and bring in the new year.

Groove at the Grove

The historic Grove House, 11 Grove St., downtown, has a solid New Year's Eve package planned with entertainment in three venues.

Club Eleven brings out electronic and video production with A/V Club producers Nicodemus and VJ Loopy Jenkins and Tech Tribe producers Yorgo Simou, J-Hecht & Luis Armando.

Scandals Nightclub has DJ Stratos and dance music.

And the Boiler Room has drag performers and DJ Acolyte with club house, tech house and Top 40 music.

Admission is $15 for club members, $20 everyone else (ages 18 and older). Visit www.thegrovehouse.com/specialevents.htm

On the Avenue

The new Avenue M restaurant, 791 Merrimon Ave. (that's the former Usual Suspects location) is celebrating with a band featuring Whitney Moore, Chuck Lichtenberger, Ozzie Orengo and Grant Cuthbertson.

Everybody smile

Mangolia's, 26 Walnut St., has Crocodile Smile Friday night at 10 p.m. The next-door Cinjade's nightclub will be thumping with dance music.

These folks have been toasting in the new year since well before downtown was so hot (Cinjades opened in 1984; Magnolia's in '88).

All you need is love

White Horse Black Mountain, 105 C Montreat Road, Black Mountain, is one of the area's finest music venues. Their New Year’s Eve party features John Leo and the Eggmen with a John Lennon tribute, plus Asheville's own Swayback Sisters.

It's a $20 cover and worth it.

Family fun

We still miss Asheville's old First Night celebration, but Marion has picked up the tradition. That town's second annual First Night New Year's Eve Celebration happens Friday evening and features music, food and entertainment.

At midnight, a replica gold nugget will be dropped onto the platform of the Marion Fire Department's tower truck. Rock!

If you are traveling this way and need a place to rest your head after the ball drops then check out these great hotels.

Be Festive with Santa in Biltmore Park

2010-12-22T11:01:00.003-05:00

Santa Claus is coming to town - Biltmore Park Town Square that is. This Friday, December 24th from 3PM to 6PM Santa will be available to hear all the last minute requests. As an added bonus you are welcome to have your child's photo taken for free. Just be sure to bring your own camera with you.

Biltmore Park is located off of I-26 at exit 37. If there is inclement weather then you can find Santa in the lobby of the Hilton Asheville Biltmore Park. While you're there you can enjoy a delicious meal or appetizer at Roux, one of the best values for a meal in Biltmore Park.

Special thanks to my friends Michael and Chance for use of their photo.

Happy Holidays from Biltmore Farms Hotels

2010-12-19T12:25:00.004-05:00

From all of us at Biltmore Farms Hotels in Asheville, North Carolina - We hope that you have a bright and happy holiday season.

Manna Food Drive at Doubletree Biltmore Hotel

2010-12-09T10:20:00.004-05:00

If you're in the Biltmore Village area this weekend, please drop off any canned good items or other food donations at the Doubletree Biltmore Hotel in support of Manna Foodbank.

The food drive was started as a collaboration with the Doubletree and Estes Elementary School to teach children the importance of caring about world hunger. Doubletree representatives went into each classroom at Estes and the students have banded together to try and collect 2,000 cans of food for hungry families across Western North Carolina.

The Doubletree Teaching Kids to Care campaign goes into the classroom twice a year each time with a different message of why it's important to care for others. Previous topics include planting trees for Arbor Day, sending out cookies to U.S. troops in Iraq and aiding the victims of Hurricane Katrina.

The food drive is scheduled to wrap up this week, but there is still time to get your donations to the hotel. Click here for directions.

Dickens in the Village this weekend in Asheville

2010-12-01T17:19:00.006-05:00

This weekend in Asheville you can experience Dickens in the Village taking place in Historic Biltmore Village. There are special events planned each day starting this Friday, Dec. 3 and ending Sunday Dec. 5th. Here you will find strolling musicians and vocalists, horse drawn carriage rides and old fashioned holiday cheer.

Here are a few hightlights of what to expect:

Friday - From 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm - The Village comes alive with the annual holiday lighting display. Also, the Montford Park Players will present scenes from "A Christmas Carol".

Saturday - From 11:00 am - 7:00 pm you can enjoy entertainment from the Vance Chorus, Flat Rick Youtheatre and the Biltmore Brass Ensemble.

Sunday - From 1:00 pm - 5:00 pm check out the Men's Morris Dancers, N8 the Great (juggling and magic), and the Appalachian Folk Choir.

There is of course so much more planned. Visit the Biltmore Village site or click here for the full list of events.

Of course there are also many great places to eat and shop while visiting. We offer hotels in Biltmore Village if you are looking for Asheville accommodations.

Photo taken by Mark File with Romantic Asheville.

Festival of Trees at the Doubletree Biltmore in Asheville

2010-11-23T13:14:00.006-05:00

I just walked through the hallways of the Doubletree Biltmore Hotel in Asheville and took in the sites of the Festival of Trees presented by CarePartners Hospice Foundation. There are so many trees everywhere and viewing is open to the public. The event lasts from November 24th until November 28th with two special events planned.

On Saturday, November 27 from 10 am - 2 pm bring your children out for a milk and cookies with Santa event.

On Sunday, November 28 there will be musical performances with live choral music starting at 2 pm and followed by Harp & Bass by Michelle Bonn and Steve Jamesson starting around 3 pm.

All proceeds from this fundraiser benefit the patients and families served by CarePartners Hospice. For more information about this event please call 828-277-4815. For more information including directions to the venue please visit the Doubletree Biltmore website.

The 2010 Holiday Season Hits Asheville

2010-11-18T14:55:00.003-05:00

This weekend in Asheville the holiday season will be in full swing. With activities planned throughout the city, this would be a perfect time to get a jump start on your holiday shopping. For more information and a complete list of retailers please visit the Biltmore Park website.

Ring in the season at Biltmore Park Town Square with a Holiday Lighting Celebration this Friday, November 19th from 6 pm to 8 pm. There will be strolling carolers, children's storytellers and even Mr. & Mrs. Clause. It's a perfect family outing and there are some great stores and restaurants to visit while you're there.

This Saturday, November 20th starting at 11 am you can catch the Asheville Holiday Parade in downtown Asheville. Marching bands, dancing troupes and multiple floats will be taking over the streets to help spread some holiday cheer. The estimated time for the parade is about two hours.

If you're visiting from out of town and need a place to stay please check into these great hotels.

Food Drive this week at Vinnie's to support MANNA

2010-11-15T11:22:00.004-05:00

Vinnie's Family Italian is hosting a food drive this week from November 15 through November 19th. Bring some extra cans of food when you come to dine this week and receive a free order of their famous garlic knots or a free cannoli for dessert (with the purchase of an entrée).

All food donations will help benefit MANNA Food Bank which helps distribute food to needy families across Western North Carolina.

Roux serves up Thanksgiving dinner in Asheville

2010-11-10T16:14:00.006-05:00

Looking for a traditional Thanksgiving dinner in Asheville this year? Roux, located in the Hilton Asheville Biltmore Park, will be serving a fantastic menu - buffet style - from 1PM until 7PM Thanksgiving day. However, if you want to have Thanksgiving at home, and don't have the time to cook, then take advantage of the Thanksgiving To Go option. Your turkey will be slow cooked early so when you come to pick it up on Thanksgiving day it will be hot, fresh and ready.

The following is what you can expect.

- Organic Spinach Salad with Shaved Fennel and Bermuda Onions, Figs, Gorgonzola & Orange Cider Vinaigrette
- Curried Sweet Potato Salad with Honey and Pine Nuts
- Sesame Green Bean Salad with Soy Glazed Almonds
- Artisan Breads with Herb Butter & Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- Wild Mushroom Bisque
- Roasted Medley of Brussel Sprouts, Carrots and Parsnips
- Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Streusel and Marshmallow Topping
- Yukon Gold Mashed Potatoes
- Traditional Southern Cornbread Dressing
- Homemade Turkey Gravy

From the Carving Board:
- Roasted Tangle Wood Farms Turkey with Orange-Cranberry Relish
- Baked Ham with Pineapple-Mustard Glaze

Desserts
- Pumpkin, Pecan or Buttermilk Pie Served Table Side with fresh Whipped Cream

Prices for the Thanksgiving buffet are $21.99 per adult and $12.00 for children 12 and under. If you are interested in the To Go program then the prices are $164 to feed 10-12 people and $87.00 to feed 4-6 people. Please call 828-209-27145 for reservations. You will need to place all To Go reservations by November 19th.

For more information call the number above of visit the Roux website.

Hilton Asheville achieves LEED Silver Certification

2010-11-08T14:31:00.008-05:00

The Hilton Asheville Biltmore Park, announced that it has been awarded LEED® Silver certification established by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) and verified by the Green Building Certification Institute (GBCI). LEED is the nation’s preeminent program for the design, construction and operation of high performance green buildings.

“The Hilton Asheville is a great example of how to combine sustainability with exceptional features and amenities to create a memorable guest experience,” said Ron Storto, Vice President of Hotel Development. “From a destination spa and fine dining to eco-conscious products and operations, this new addition to our hotel portfolio pairs environmental stewardship with Biltmore Farms legacy of service, style and innovation.”

Hilton Asheville achieved LEED certification for incorporating a variety of sustainable strategies. The largest factor being that Hilton Asheville is among the first hotels in the country to install a solar hot water system. It is the largest system installed in Western North Carolina to date. Water throughout the hotel, including the pool, is heated using solar power, eliminating 25 tons of carbon dioxide per year, which is the equivalent of planting 7,000 trees. By using less energy and water, LEED certified buildings, such as the Hilton Asheville, save money for families, business and taxpayers; reduce greenhouse gas emissions; and contribute to a healthier environment for residents, workers and the larger community.

“With each new LEED-certified building, we get one step closer to USGBC’s vision of a sustainable built environment within a generation,” said Rick Fedrizzi, President, CEO and Founding Chair, U.S. Green Building Council. “As the newest member of the LEED family of green buildings, Hilton Asheville Biltmore Park is an important addition to the growing strength of the green building movement.”

LEED certification of Hilton Asheville was based on a number of green design and construction features that positively impact the project itself and the broader community. These features include:

• Solar Powered Hot Water System.
• Low volatile organic compounds used as building materials.
• All ENERGY STAR® qualified CFL lighting throughout the hotel.
• Saline pool reduces purchase, transport & storage of chlorine chemicals.
• Full scale recycling program including guest rooms.
• Farm to table menu items.
• Donation of cooking oil for alternative fuels.
• Donation of food waste for composting.
• A linen and towel reuse program to reduce water consumption.
• Shuttle service provided in an alternative fuel vehicle.
• Special parking for all hybrid vehicles.
• Bicycle racks available for alternative transportation

Hilton Asheville Biltmore Park is the first hotel in Western North Carolina to achieve a LEED certification and it is one of only three in the state of NC. To learn more about the sustainability efforts of the Hilton Asheville and all of the Biltmore Farms Hotels please visit our sustainability site. For more information on the Hilton Asheville please visit here.

Essential Journeys Open House in Asheville

2010-11-03T11:32:00.006-04:00

Buy local is a mantra in Asheville and here is a chance to take part in that. Asheville-based Kimberly Masters, is the founder of Essential Journeys which specializes in handcrafted soaps, lotion, lip lube and soy candles, all made from natural ingredients and inspired from travels around the world. The studio is hosting an open house for everyone to explore the studio and learn about the soap making process.

The event is scheduled for Saturday, December 4, 2010 from 1:00p.m. - 6:00p.m. The soap studio is located at 77 Vermont Ave, Asheville, NC. It will be a wonderful opportunity for some holiday shopping and mingling. Hot cider and snacks will be provided. There is no cost to attend and guests will have a chance to meet Kimberly and ask any questions.

For more information you can call 828-350-0395.

Halloween 2010 in Asheville

2010-10-27T17:17:00.004-04:00

It's that time of year to find fun activities all geared towards spine tingling fun and eating candy. I'll opt for the eating candy part myself. There are a ton of activities going on in Asheville this weekend. The largest of the events is MoogFest which still has some day passes available. I'll be going to see Big Boi, Pretty Lights and the School of Seven Bells. Other big artists like Massive Attack and Thievery Corporation are on the list as well. You can visit here for more information on that.

For other options check out what ExploreAsheville.com has to say. They have a great list of kid friendly and adult only activities.

For those in the downtown Asheville area Sunday night around 8PM, you may be lucky enough to catch a Thriller flashmob which will be a true Halloween treat.

During the day you can still see a lot of great leaf looking as the trees are in full color. Be sure to check out the fall color report.

Hotels are booking up fast, but we still have some availability at our Biltmore Farms Hotels. Be sure to check us out if you're looking for a place to stay.

Jeff Hamilton Trio this weekend in Asheville

2010-10-21T17:29:00.004-04:00

This Sunday, October 24th starting at 7:00 PM, the Jeff Hamilton Trio will be performing at the Diana Wortham Theatre in downtown Asheville, NC.

Renowned drummer Jeff Hamilton has mastered dynamics and subtlety, an exceptionally rare achievement. Fortunate audience members on October 24 will experience why jazz bible JazzTimes magazine assessed Jeff's Trio's 2009 recording "Symbiosis" so glowingly:

"Jeff Hamilton's Trio integrates parts like a master chef integrates components to make a mouth-watering dish. Individually each instrument has a neutral glow, but when the parts are bridged together, the result metamorphoses into a grand montage with big band muscle. The trio's rapport is inspiring and their dialogue is aurally melodic, producing music with dancehall style and swing-jazz sophistication. With tracks that are sentimental, exuberant, and consoling, Symbiosis exudes characteristics that touch human emotions."

Tickets are $25 for members of the WNC Jazz Society and $35 for non-members. Students p[ay $10 with ID. This will be the final performance of the 2010 series. There will be a pre-show meet and greet with refreshments and entertainment starting at 6:10. For more information visit WNC Jazz Society's website.

If you are traveling form out of town and need a place to stay please check out these great Asheville hotels.

Warren Haynes Christmas Jam lineup announced

2010-10-13T13:54:00.005-04:00

The holidays are fast approaching and nothing says Christmas in Asheville like the Warren Haynes Christmas Jam scheduled for Saturday, December 11th at the Asheville Civic Center. This week the preliminary lineup was released and there are a ton of great musicians that we be present this year.

This is the twenty second year that this festival has taken place and it is always a sellout show. You want to make sure you purchase your tickets early if you want to go. The London Times has called this "one of the top ten concerts in the United States." That's a pretty impressive statement, but then again check out the bands that are playing.

The featured list includes:

-Steve Miller Band
-The Warren Haynes Band
-Gregg Allman
-Widespread Panic's John Bell
-Widespread Panic's John "JoJo" Hermann
-Drive-By Truckers
-Umphreys McGee
-The Dirty Dozen Brass Band
and there's more to be announced in the next few months.

Tickets will go on sale on October 23rd through Ticketmaster and the Asheville Civic Center ticket office. There is a pre-sale planned starting this Thursday, October 14th through Friday the 15th (while supplies last). VIP passes are also available and include tickets to the pre-show at The Orange Peel and the main concert, early admission to the show, a special catered private party, a VIP viewing area close to the stage and lots of other goodies. For more information visit the official website.

If you're traveling out of town there are great deals available at these Asheville hotels.

Elton John coming to Asheville

2010-09-29T16:49:00.006-04:00

For the second time in a decade Elton John will be playing in Asheville. He is gracing the stage of the Asheville Civic Center to perform on the Greatest Hits Tour. His music has spanned the decades giving him worldwide fame from an early age. He has produced numerous gold and platinum albums and has sold more than 250 million records worldwide.

The concert is scheduled for Tuesday, Nov. 16 starting at 8 p.m. Tickets ($47/$87/$137, plus applicable fees) go on sale at 10 a.m. Monday, Oct. 4, online at www.ticketmaster.com, at all Ticketmaster outlets, or via charge-by-phone at 800-745-3000. There is an eight-ticket limit per customer.

If you are traveling from out of town and are looking for a great hotel check out Biltmore Farms Hotels, Asheville's premiere hotel group.

Roux restaurant hosts wine dinner to benefit Animal Compassion Network

2010-09-26T15:00:00.004-04:00

Roux, the restaurant of the Hilton Asheville Biltmore Park, will be hosting a special reception and wine dinner to benefit the Animal Compassion Network's Foster and Adoption Program. The event is scheduled for Tuesday, October 5, from 6:30 until 9:00PM. The dinner, prepared by Chef Randy Dunn, will be a five course gourmet vegetarian meal. Wine pairings generously donated by Biltmore Wines will be presented by Biltmore Winemaker, Sharon Fenchak.

The course menus are as follow:

Reception
- Display of figs, gorgonzola & honey-spiced pecans
- Shiitake mushroom crustini with pear chutney
- Thai red curry deviled eggs
- Endive with fresh ricotta, cracked black pepper, tart apples and pine nuts
- Wine pairing: Chateau Reserve Blanc de Blanc - North Carolina

1st Course
- Summer roll of tamirand infused tofu & pineapple with yuzu ponzu
- Wine pairing: Biltmore Estate Riesling - North Carolina

2nd Course
- Salad of arugula & fennel with sweet potato croutons & local pistachio chevre
- Wine Pairing: Biltmore Estate Chardonnay - North Carolina

3rd Course
- Smokey mac & cheese with porcini mushrooms & grilled vegetables
- Wine pairing: Biltmore Reserve Pinot Noir - Russian River Valley

4th Course
- Grilled risotto and vegetable stack with roasted tomato buerre rouge
- Wine Pairing: Antler Hill Syrah - Napa Valley

5th Course
- Dark chocolate polenta cake with hazelnut-cherry mousse
- Wine Pairing: Biltmore Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon

Ticket prices are $60 per person and $100 per couple and must be purchased in advanced. You may purchase tickets at Pet Harmony, Hilton Asheville Biltmore Park, Sensibilities Day Spa, or online at Animal Compassion Network. Tickets are limited so buy early to ensure a spot at the event. In addition the Hilton Asheville is offering a room package. For an additional $99 you would be able to stay the night. To reserve the room package please e-mail Stan Turner, General Manager of the Hilton Asheville at sturner@biltmorefarmshotels.com

The photo above is of Hilton, one of the many dogs rescued through the Animal Compassion Network.

Help end childhood hunger at Vinnie's

2010-09-21T12:29:00.005-04:00

From now through September 25th you can help eradicate childhood hunger by dining at Vinnie's Neighborhood Italian, Asheville's newest Italian restaurant located at 641 Merrimon Avenue in Asheville. Vinnie's is participating in the Great American Dine Out Week and a percentage of all sales will go to support this cause.

Funds raised through the Great American Dine Out support No Kid Hungry™, Share Our Strength’s campaign to end childhood hunger in America by 2015. Great American Dine Out funds help Share Our Strength connect needy families with food in the following ways:

- Enroll more eligible kids in school breakfast, after-school snacks and meals, and their families in SNAP (food stamps).
- Bring community gardens and farmers markets to low-income neighborhoods
- Bring affordable, fresh fruits and vegetables to urban corner stores.
Teach at-risk families how to plan, shop for, and prepare healthy, low-cost meals at home.
- Help local food pantries, food banks and soup kitchens meet the pressing demand for more nutritious food.
- Increase awareness and understanding of childhood hunger and solutions to it.

Vinnie's is open seven nights a week and there is plenty of free parking. Their hours are Sunday through Thursday from 4:40PM - 9:30PM and Friday through Saturday from 4:30PM - 10:30PM. They are also offering an early bird special of 15% off from 4:30PM to 5:30PM. Learn more about Vinnie's here.

Leaf lookers prepare for a colorful season in Asheville

2010-09-16T14:00:00.004-04:00

This year promises to be a colorful leaf season in Asheville. Check out this information released by the Asheville Convention and Visitors Bureau.

ASHEVILLE, NC (September 14, 2010) – In the tricky business that is forecasting the whims of Mother Nature, it is rare that experts agree as they make fall color predictions. This year, biologists and naturalists in Western North Carolina and the Asheville area are singing the same tune: Seasonal weather patterns and early climate indicators may trigger the most colorful leaf season in years.

Good News for Colorful Fall Vacations

As the last week of summer arrives, travelers can look to fall foliage experts to learn what is in store for autumn travel in 2010:

Expert Forecast Quotes

“A long spell of dry weather during the spring and summer could provide some of the most brilliant colors seen in several years for leaf-lookers headed to the mountains of Western North Carolina this autumn,” reported Katherine Mathews, Western Carolina University’s assistant professor of biology specializing in plant systematics.

“While there were periods of low rainfall with some higher than normal temperatures, the mountains around Asheville have had plenty of rain toward the end of the summer. With cooler, clear weather moving in this September, fall seems to be setting up nicely,” said Parker Andes, director of horticulture at Biltmore in Asheville.

“A few weeks ago the weather transitioned to clear, sunny days–the ideal combination for a really beautiful fall,” said Dr. Howie Neufeld, professor of plant physiology at Appalachian State University.

“When people remember a good color season, it is usually because they got those brilliant reds contrasting against the rest of the fall color spectrum. The bi-product of photosynthesis is sugar, and sugar triggers red pigment production. So, these bright sunny days we’re seeing will build up that intense red pigment in the leaves. We’re on course for a colorful fall season,” continued Dr. Neufeld.

Fall Color Wars: Scientifically Substantiated Bias

Extreme elevation variations and biologically diverse microclimates combine to give the Southern Appalachian Mountains one of the longest and most colorful leaf seasons in the country. Regional experts weigh-in on who has the best fall color:

“New England’s color comes primarily from birch, beech and maple–a beautiful, bright autumn display with big blotches of color. But, the South has more than 100 species of deciduous trees. The combination of topography and color diversity here can make our fall colors spectacular. Out West you see more evergreens and yellow, but you don’t get a lot of that vibrant red that makes up the eastern fall patchwork. I’ve lived in the Northeast and the West, and I think North Carolina has some of the best fall color in the country,” said Dr. Neufeld.

“The mountains of Western NC have the most forest diversity of anywhere in the country, which gives us a uniquely broad range of fall color and a longer season. From the yellows of cucumber magnolias around Balsam Mountain to the burgundy of black gums along the Davidson River, there is a rainbow of colors to be seen here. And, because of the different altitudes, microclimates and mild weather, visitors can always find good color and lots of activities throughout the region,” said Andes.

Timing Your Fall Vacation

“We’re already starting to see signs of color at the highest elevations here at the end of September. Our American ash trees are beginning to tinge with purple and the bright red berries on the mountain ashe are putting on a good show. Leaf peepers should look for high elevation habitats to color-up first, such as heath balds on mountain ridges,” said Jesse Pope, chief naturalist at Grandfather Mountain.

“I’m very optimistic about the intensity of color we could see this year. However, the duration and timing of fall greatly depends on these last couple of weeks in September. Rapid changes in temperature could start the color action early, and we want to avoid wind events that would stress and prematurely down the leaves,” continued Pope.

Weekly Fall Color Reports:

To help visitors locate where the autumn color is peaking from week-to-week, the Asheville Convention & Visitors Bureau is working with park officials, attractions and biologists around the region to compile weekly fall color reports for the mountains of Western North Carolina at FallintheMountains.com. Asheville’s fall color experts will also be tweeting up-to-the-minute color updates, travel tips and deals at @FallColorHunter on Twitter.

With the fall season fast approaching now is a great time to book your room reservation as hotels in the Asheville area will start selling out. Check out these great hotels and plan your getaway today.

Black Keys change date of Asheville performance

2010-09-09T12:35:00.003-04:00

Due to a death of a family member, The Black Keys are rescheduling their September 14th show at The Orange Peel in Asheville, NC to Thursday, September 16th. All previously purchased tickets will be honored for the rescheduled date. All show details will remain the same - the show will start at 9pm with doors at 8pm on Thursday. If you are unable to attend the new date, refunds will be available at the Orange Peel box office until Thursday, September 16th at 5:30pm. For questions, contact the Orange Peel at (828) 225-5851 or by email, info@theorangepeel.net before Thursday at 5:30pm. No refunds will be offered past this deadline. The band and the Orange Peel apologize for any inconvenience to our fans. We'll see you at the show on Thursday, September 16th

Spotlight on Asheville Artist Mitchell Lonas

2010-08-25T11:07:00.006-04:00

Asheville is well known for being a cultural and artistic mecca. The plethora of galleries, studio strolls, and art & craft fairs that occur throughout the year are a testament to the size of the artistic community in Western North Carolina. Many artists take up residency in this vibrant mountain community including Mitchell Lonas.

The following is an excerpt from Mitchell's bio on his website.

The Tennessee native, who studied art history at the University of Tennessee in Knoxville, was for many years a respected portrait painter before transitioning to his current style. A portraitist’s sense of focus, line, and beauty continues to inform his latest work, showcased in exhibitions such as The Wrench Series at Gallery Bienvenu in New Orleans.

Lonas, who now lives and maintains a studio practice in Asheville, North Carolina, personally developed many of the processes that imbue his work with its unique sense of materiality. “The challenge,” he observes, “is to create something original using unconventional materials and methods.” To that end, beginning in 2005, he evolved a method of applying paint to metal panels and incising them with iconic imagery. Working from sketches, he uses customized cutting tools to create rapturous stylizations of trees, feathers, birds’ nests, and other subject matter culled from the plant and animal kingdoms. As viewers behold the completed works from different vantage points, the myriad beveled lines in each composition glint and shimmer in the light.

Mitchell Lonas’ work has been widely exhibited and is featured in notable private, public, institutional, and corporate collections, among them a series of large-scale commissions for Nordstrom department stores.

Mithcell's Metal Nest series is currently on exhibit at the Hilton Asheville Biltmore Park, a hotel that adorns all of it's walls with the work of local artists.

###

—Bio excerpted from “Mitchell Lonas: The Wrench Series” by Richard Speer. Speer is contributing critic at ARTNews and Art Ltd. magazines. His essays have appeared in The Los Angeles Times, The Chicago Tribune, The Huffington Post, Newsweek, Salon, and Opera News. www.richardspeer.com

Flower Carpet starts next week at Biltmore

2010-08-20T15:43:00.007-04:00

The Flower Carpet returns next week to the South Terrace of Biltmore Estate. Daytime guests can admire a living work of art from August 20 until September 12th, 2010. The Biltmore's horticultural team have used their artistic abilities to select and weave 155,000 plants into a pattern inspired by a rare stained glass window now on display in The Biltmore Legacy.

On select Friday and Saturday evenings, guests can experience the magical combination of a candlelight visit to Biltmore House, the flower carpet dramatically lit, live jazz music and soft moonlight. Reservations are required and guests and upgrade their daytime tickets to an evening visit for only $10. Evening visits are available August 20, 21, 27, 28 and September 10,11.

If you're traveling to the Biltmore and need a place to stay we have three hotels conveniently located in Biltmore Village, just next to the Estate.

TEDx Asheville coming soon

2010-08-18T16:55:00.006-04:00

For the second year in a row, Asheville will host a TEDx conference providing a forum for people who believe passionately in the power of ideas to change attitudes, lives and ultimately the world. TED stands for Technology, Entertainment and Design, however the scope of TED presentations extend far beyond those categories. TED conferences offer knowledge and inspiration from the world's most inspired thinkers, and a community of curious souls to engage with ideas and each other.

On August 29, 2010 TedX Asheville will come alive at the Orange Peel located in Downtown Asheville. Seven speakers are planned including Doc Hendley (2009 CNN Hero) and "The Last American Man" Eustace Conway. Once the Orange Peel has filled to capacity people will be directed to offsite LiveStream events. One offsite event planned is at the Doubletree Biltmore Hotel in their Burghley Ballroom. Directions to this hotel can be found here.

For more information about this event please visit the TedX Asheville website. If you are traveling out of town the following hotels have special rates established for this event. Reference the TedX rate when making a reservation. Please note that there are a limited amount of rooms available with this special rate so please book early.

Doubletree Biltmore Hotel - reservations 828.274.1800
Residence Inn Biltmore - reservations 828.281.3361

MoogFest line up announced

2010-08-11T10:53:00.010-04:00

This year Asheville is going to get a special treat during the Halloween weekend. MoogFest is a three day musical event celebrating the life and accomplishments of Robert Moog who was a longtime resident of Asheville. AC Entertainment (creators of Bonnaroo) is organizing this event and they have just released their lineup for this year's festival.

With major artists such as Big Boi, Thievery Corporation, Massive Attack, MGMT and more on the schedule, tickets will sell quickly for this multi-venue event. Tickets go on sale this Friday, August 13th.

More information, as provided by the official MoogFest website, is provided below.

Moogfest – the annual event honoring the remarkable vision of Robert Moog and his amazing musical inventions that changed the course of music – is reinventing itself. This year, moogfest 2010 will move from New York City to Asheville, NC – the place Bob Moog called home for the last 30 years of his life – and will expand to a 3-day, multi-venue event during the weekend of October 29 -31, 2010. During the festival, moogfest 2010 will host artists and audiences from throughout the world in different venues throughout Asheville’s beautiful, historic downtown.

Moogfest 2010 will celebrate Bob Moog’s legacy as a sonic pioneer, which will be the thread that unites the festival’s rich array of musical offerings. While the wide range of Moog instruments – the Minimoog Voyager, the Little Phatty, the Etherwave Theremin, Moogerfoogers, and the new Moog Guitar – will play prominent roles throughout the festival’s events, the artists performing will certainly not be limited to those who create their work on Moog instruments. Instead, artists will be chosen for their role in creating unique and groundbreaking musical experiences that embody the essence of Bob Moog’s visionary and creative spirit.

In addition to fantastic concerts by renowned performers of all kinds, moogfest 2010 will also offer opportunities to engage with the artists in panel discussions, question and answer sessions, and workshops. There will also be interactive experiences for the audience to explore their own musical creativity with a variety of Moog instruments. The festival will also offer visual art exhibitions, installations, and film screenings throughout the weekend.

Asheville hotels will book quickly for this event. If you would like to reserve a room please visit here.

Anticipation builds for the WNC Wine & Food Festival

2010-08-04T10:48:00.007-04:00

Well known for being a culinary destination, Asheville will be celebrating its local “foodie” community with a weekend filled with delicious activities.

The WNC magazine Asheville Wine & Food Festival will be held indoors on August 14, 2010, in the new expo facility at the WNC Agricultural Center across from the Asheville Regional Airport and adjacent to Interstate 26 with easy connections from Interstate 40. With more than 60 regional, national, and international wineries already committed to this year’s festival, along with regional restaurants and local food producers, this event will allow attendees to experience the diverse culinary offerings of Western North Carolina. (More information about the festival can be found at WNC Magazine's official site.

In conjunction with this event, the Hilton Asheville Biltmore Park is providing you a special package that includes:

- Deluxe overnight room with King Bed or Two Queen Beds
- Complimentary Hilton Shuttle service to and from the event
- (2) Tickets to the Asheville Wine & Food Festival
- Champagne Sunday Brunch for Two

Total cost of this package is $189 per night, plus tax. To book, call the Hilton directly at 828-209-2700 or click here to book on-line.

Don't miss the Freddy Cole Quartet

2010-07-28T15:59:00.003-04:00

Jazz lovers in Asheville are in for a real treat this Saturday, July 31st as Freddy Cole, brother to Nat King Cole, takes the stage starting at 8:00PM in the Diana Wortham Theatre.

With his signature elegance and authentic cool, legendary vocalist-pianist Freddy Cole's performances make every audience members' heart smile. The New York Times recently heaped rare praise in Cole's direction: "Freddy has an impeccable sense of swing...he is, overall, the most maturely expressive male jazz singer of his generation, if not the best alive."

Cole doesn't apologize for a style that faintly echoes his brother, Nat "King" Cole. There are certain unmistakable similarities. He plays piano masterfully and sings and performs live with guitar and upright bass, just like Nat. Yet his voice is raspier, smokier, jazzier even. In truth, his phrasing is far closer to that of Frank Sinatra or Billie Holiday than that of his brother and his timing swings a little more. His vocals-suave, elegant, formidable, and articulate-are among the most respected in jazz.

If you would like to learn more about the show visit the WNC Jazz Society's site. There you can also listen to select audio clips of Freddy's music. If you are traveling in from out of town and need a place to stay, check out these great hotels.

The stars come out at Biltmore

2010-07-21T10:07:00.006-04:00

The Biltmore Summer Concert Series is in full swing and this weekend is packed with large name acts. The South Terrace at the Biltmore is the perfect backdrop for an outdoor concert with mountain views, a glorious home and bright stars in the sky and on stage.

On Thursday night Mary Chapin Carpenter will grace the stage. Over the course of a 12–album recording career, Carpenter has won five Grammy® Awards and sold over 13 million records. Carpenter will celebrate her return to a favorite venue, playing the music of her latest album, The Age of Miracles, which was released this spring.

On Friday night, after much anticipation, Clay Aiken and Ruben Studdard kick off their North America tour at Biltmore. Concert goers can expect an entertaining evening as two friends and colleagues blend their talents for an unforgettable show. Clay and Ruben will be performing their renditions of classic hits from the past five decades. In 2003, on the second season of American Idol, with over 24 million votes cast by the TV viewing audience, Ruben Studdard won the title, while Clay Aiken was the very close runner up.

The concert starts at 8PM and Biltmore recommends you arrive at least 30 minutes prior to show time. Tickets range from $40 for general admission to $75 for premium seating. You can also purchase packages that will include an Estate pass so that you can tour the home, winery and gardens prior to showtime. For more information on the concerts please visit here. If you are traveling in from out of town and need a place to stay check out these great hotels.

Parkway Playhouse presents: Annie

2010-07-07T09:40:00.004-04:00

This weekend the Parkway Playhouse in Burnsville, NC will be running it's final four performances of the classic stage show Annie.

The popular comic strip heroine takes center stage in one of the world's best-loved musicals. Annie is a spunky Depression-era orphan determined to find her parents, who abandoned her on the doorstep of a New York City orphanage run by the cruel, embittered Miss Hannigan. In adventure after fun-filled adventure, Annie foils Miss Hannigan's evil machinations, befriends President Franklin Delano Roosevelt and finds a new family in billionaire Oliver Warbucks, his personal secretary Grace Farrell and a lovable mutt named Sandy.

Annie first appeared on the scene in 1924 and her daily comic strip ran for almost 85 years ending just last month (June 2010). You wouldn't know it from the infectious smile and the curly red ringlets of hair, but the story of Annie was, at times, considered controversial for its political undertones and the way it highlighted the more darker aspects of human nature such as the disparity between the rich and the poor.

During the 1930's a radio show called Little Orphan Annie hit the airwaves and lasted for ten years before ending in 1940. Also during the same decade two films were created based on Annie. In 1977 the first Broadway stage show was created and it ran until 1983. Another movie was released in 1982 revitalizing the popular songs such as Hard Knocked Life and The Sun Will Come Out Tomorrow.

You can enjoy those songs again this weekend. The show at Parkway Playhouse begins at 7:30PM this Thursday running through Saturday with a special matinee show beginning at 2PM on Saturday only. Tickets range from $12-$22 and can be purchased here.

If you're traveling in from out of town and need a place to stay check out these great hotels.

Live Music in Biltmore Park this Saturday

2010-06-18T11:06:00.002-04:00

This Saturday, June 19 from 7:00 to 9:00 PM you can enjoy the music of The Business in Biltmore Park. There is no cost to anyone who would like to attend.

The Business is a collection of musicians that have devoted their lives to creating memories through music. Their good time feel and their repertoire of songs that span decades make them a group you don't want to miss.

Listen to their music here and then head out on Saturday night. Make sure you get a bite to eat at one of Biltmore Park's great restaurants. I recommend roux. There you can enjoy some great meals and local brew for a lower price than most Asheville eateries. Saturdays are also half off appetizers! Roux is located inside the Hilton Asheville.

Summer Festivals in Asheville

2010-06-08T11:38:00.004-04:00

Asheville, North Carolina (June 8, 2010) Summer in the Blue Ridge Mountains brings many wonderful music, art and food festivals – and much of the fun is free! Here are the Top 12 Summer Festivals this year in the Asheville area, as selected by www.RomanticAsheville.com Travel Guide:

June 11-12: Blue Ridge BBQ & Music Festival in Tryon features Hog Heaven with 80 cook teams, live music and craft fair.

June 12-13: River District Artists Studio Stroll in Asheville is your chance to tour the studios, meet with the artists and purchase artwork.

June 25-August 8: Brevard Music Center Festival features 400 of the most talented students in the world, joining Brevard's artist faculty to present more than 80 concerts in a beautiful setting.

July 3, 10, 17, 31 August 14, 21, 28, September 4: Shindig on the Green attracts musicians and dancers from Western North Carolina on Saturday nights to share the region's Southern Appalachian mountain culture in downtown Asheville.

July 8-11: Grandfather Mountain Highland Games is considered to be the grandfather of Scottish Games in the United States.

July 22-August 1: Folkmoot USA is North Carolina's Official International Festival, a two-week celebration of the world's cultural heritage through folk music and dance.

July 23-25: Bele Chere is the largest free outdoor street festival in the Southeast, held in downtown Asheville.

August 6-7: Mt. Mitchell Crafts Fair is the oldest and largest crafts fair in the Blue Ridge with 250+ craftfolk showing their work in downtown Burnsville.

August 7-8: Village Art & Craft Fair in Biltmore Village hosts 125 artists from 20 states representing the full spectrum of craft media – jewelry, ceramic, wood, fiber, metals, two-dimensional art and more.

August 14-15: Sourwood Festival fills the streets of downtown Black Mountain with great music, lots of fun, and plenty of great mountain cookin'.

August 27-29: Goombay is an African-Caribbean style festival in downtown Asheville with entertainment including steel drums, African-America dancers, local gospel groups, and contemporary rhythm bands, plus crafts and great food.

September 3-6: NC Apple Festival in downtown Hendersonville features more than 150 vendors with continuous entertainment. The King Apple Parade, always held on Labor Day, culminates the Main Street activities.

If you are traveling to Asheville for any of these great events then check out these wonderful hotel options. For more information on area festivals visit here.

Dine to support Relay for Life

2010-06-07T16:31:00.003-04:00

On Tuesday, June 8th you can support the Biltmore Park Relay for Life event by dining at one of the restaurants listed below. Each restaurant will be donating ten percent of all proceeds to the American Cancer Society.

Participating Restaurants Include:

- Brixx Wood Fired Pizza
- 131 Main
- Hickory Tavern
- Cold Stone Creamery
- roux at the Hilton Asheville

Each restaurant is open for lunch and dinner and roux will also be open for breakfast. All are located in Biltmore Park Town Square in South Asheville. If you would like to support the Relay for Life in other ways please visit the official site for this event.

Asheville wins Beer City USA title for a second year.

2010-05-24T15:43:00.006-04:00

Asheville has won the title of Beer City USA for a second year in a row. With a number of new breweries opening in the Asheville area this win comes as no surprise for local beer enthusiasts. To celebrate this title there is an upcoming festival in June. Details on that in a minute - first more about the contest.

From the Beer Examiner blog - Asheville, North Carolina represents the spirit of beer enthusiasm, taking top honors in BeerCity USA 2010 poll.

Asheville, North Carolina is BeerCity USA 2010. While Portland, Oregon organized a healthy challenge against the western North Carolina city of Asheville, in the end the relentless craft beer enthusiasm for Asheville won out. Enjoy the hundreds of comments on the original poll site.

There’s no doubt about Portland, Oregon. Anyone who has enjoyed beer in Portland will agree, it’s a craft beer experience and highlight of the American beer experience. Asheville has 6 breweries who enjoy terrific support from their local community. Beers experienced from breweries in both cities, I can attest to, are worth the journey to these American beer Meccas. In fact beer enjoyed in most American cities is worth the journey. Beer drinkers are on notice: You can leave home now – better beer awaits.

What about the 1,500+ other craft brewers and the cities, towns and villages they call “local?” The growth in enthusiasm and support for celebrating American Craft Beer Week last week is a clear indication that there are many BeerCity USAs worth visiting. Savoring the American beer landscape has turned out to be a fun journey for 90 million American beer drinkers. American Craft Beer Week coincided with BeerCity USA poll and ended with an outpouring of votes for the relatively smaller city of Asheville, North Carolina. In the end the 7-day BeerCity USA 2010 poll reflected a clear winner. Most Americans, on average live within 10 miles of a brewery.

It’s always time to celebrate beer. Here are the results of BeerCity USA 2010 Poll.

19,040 votes were cast by 11:59 p.m., Sunday, May 23 (MountainTime). Here’s the finally tally for the top 10 vote getters:

Top Ten BeerCities USA 2010

City
Total Votes
Pecentage Votes

1. Asheville, NC
7389
38.8%

2. Portland, OR
6565
34.5%

3. San Diego, CA
884
4.6%

4. Philadelphia, PA
600
3.2%

5. Missoula, MT
515
2.7%

6. St. Louis, MO
421
2.2%

7. Seattle, WA
362
1.9%

8. Denver, CO
234
1.2%

9. Milwaukee, WI
227
1.2%

Fort Collins, CO
210
1.1%

Congratulations to the beer enthusiast network and beer passion expressed in the BeerCity USA Poll 2010 by Asheville, North Carolina.

Asheville will be celebrating this win with the Beer City Festival on June 5th. It will take place at the new Roger McQuire Park in downtown Asheville. There is a full line up of bands and of course a variety of tasty brews. Tickets are available online. If you are traveling in to Asheville for this event then check out these great hotels.

Charles Schwab info session at the Hilton Asheville

2010-05-14T15:04:00.004-04:00

On Wednesday May 19th, investors of all experience levels are welcome to attend an educational seminar presented by Charles Schwab & Company at the Hilton Asheville Biltmore Park. The topic for this session will be how best to use Schwab.com to research investments; place online trade orders for stocks, bonds and mutual funds; and manage your finances with convenient online tools.

There are two sessions planned for the day. The first one starts at 9:30 AM and the other begins at 2:30 PM. The seminar is free for anyone who wants to attend. If you have questions regarding this event you can e-mail William.Wells@schwab.com for more information.

To learn about how you can book your next meeting with the Hilton Asheville Biltmore Park, visit us here.

Fanaticon this weekend in Asheville

2010-05-12T10:23:00.003-04:00

This weekend the streets of Asheville will be inundated with comic book and sci-fi characters as Fanaticon makes it's inaugural debut. This free convention will be held at the Asheville Art Museum downtown this Saturday from 10 AM to 5 PM, hand there are special events planned all weekend long.

Exhibitors will be on hand selling many types of costumes, collectibles and comics. Special guest Butch Guice will also be on hand to meet fans. He has worked on many notable characters in the comic book world including Captain America, Superman, X-Factor and more. For the Star Wars fans out there be sure to look for the Rebel Legion which specializes in exact costume replicas of your favorite characters. This may be a great time to buy a Wookie costume for Halloween (or any other day you feel like dressing up like Chewie).

Speaking of dressing up, one of the activities planned is a costume parade. Come dressed in your favorite hero (or villain) attire and make a scene on stage of the Diana Wortham Theatre. Everyone who participates will receive a special prize.

To learn more about this event check out the Fanaticon website. If you are traveling into town and need accomodations there are still rooms available at these great hotels.

Mother's Day Brunch at roux in Asheville

2010-05-06T12:15:00.008-04:00

This Mother's Day why not treat the special mother in your life to a delicious brunch menu specially crafted by Chef Randy Dunn at roux, a restaurant located inside the Hilton Asheville Biltmore Park. The brunch is this Sunday May 9, 2010 from 11am - 2pm.

The theme of roux is southern food with a twist and this menu certainly delivers on that. Where else can you find applewood smoked bacon layered between peanut butter and banana pancakes? Perhaps your palate prefers a more traditional brunch item such as the Eggs Benny, but there are options to spice it up with smoked salmon or fried oysters. The crab and swiss omelet is sure to be a winner as well, but still there's more.

Other menu items include the maple-ginger glazed salmon, slow cooked pork belly, fried chicken and waffle or a 12oz prime rib. There are delicious desserts as well such as the caramel pecan bread pudding with white chocolate whiskey sauce or a fresh strawberry shortcake trifle.

In addition to the menu items there will also be a full buffet that includes, cooked to order eggs, omelets, waffles, pancakes, french toast, greek pasta primavera, carved to order salmon wellington, roasted potatoes and mushroom bisque. The buffet costs $16.95 and includes a beverage.

Are you hungry yet? Reservations can be made by calling 828-209-2715. You can learn more about roux and get directions here. If you're traveling to Asheville this week you should check out our Hilton hotel where roux is located for your lodging needs.

Little Shop of Horrors starts this weekend in Asheville.

2010-04-29T11:59:00.005-04:00

Starting this weekend and running each weekend through May 16th, the Asheville Community Theatre will be presenting Little Shop of Horrors.

The musical is centered around a shy man named Seymour who is trying to get the girl of his dreams, Audrey. That is if the alien plant Audrey II doesn't eat her first. The stage musical first premiered in 1982 in an off-Broadway production and was an adaptation of a low budget 1960's film by the same title. Audiences were again treated to another film adaptation in 1986.

Due to it never going On Broadway it was unable to receive a Tony Award, however the musical did receive many other awards and was one of the longest running and highest grossing Off-Broadway productions ever. Many songs are well known in pop culture including Skid Row, Dentist! and Suddenly Seymour.

For tickets and show times please visit the ACT site. If you are planning a trip to Asheville and need a place to stay then check into one of these great hotels.

Here is a behind the scenes interview with Director Mark Jones.

Interview with "Little Shop" director Mark Jones from William Tiernan on Vimeo.

Karrin Allyson Quartet brings Jazz to Asheville

2010-04-21T16:24:00.004-04:00

This Sunday April 25th, you can see Karrin Allyson perform at the Diane Wortham Theatre at 7:00PM This marks the next installment of the Western North Carolina Jazz Society's 2010 series.

On June 30, 2009, Concord Jazz celebrated Karrin Allyson's illustrious career with her 12th album for the label, By Request: The Best of Karrin Allyson, a 13-track collection that provides a remarkable overview of the musical journeys the thrice Grammy-nominated vocalist has embarked on in the last 15 years.

One of the most noteworthy characteristics of Allyson's career is the diversity of material she has explored, which is fully represented on By Request. "Karrin has expanded the jazz vocal repertoire," says Concord VP Nick Phillips, who cites her ease and authenticity in both French and Portuguese as well as her embrace of the Great American Songbook, roots music, blues and jazz. "She is remarkably talented."
Karrin's Grammy nominated 2008 release Imagina: Songs of Brasil earned rare accolades in JazzTimes magazine's review:

"To suggest that this is Karrin Allyson's finest album to date would be a disservice to such solid accomplishments as her 2001 Coltrane tribute and 2006's bold, brave Footprints; but ranking it among the best nods to Brazil ever crafted by an American singer seems fully justified"

Selections from this heralded recording will be performed on April 25. Audience members will experience why Karrin Allyson is consistently voted a leading vocalist in critics' and readers' polls.

Tickets for this event are $25 for members and $35 for non-members. Students pay $10 with a valid student ID. For more information and to hear samples of Karrin's music, please visit here. If you need a place to stay while you are in Asheville I recommend you look no further than here.

George Clinton in Asheville tonight!

2010-04-13T14:45:00.003-04:00

Be sure you head out to The Orange Peel tonight for George Clinton and the Parliament Funkadelic. Think of George Clinton and you'll likely conjure an image of a crazy black man with rainbow dreads and garb befitting a galactic shaman literally barking at phat bottomed girls with a sub-atomic "WOOF!" This lovable nutcase is the legendary and internationally renowned grandfather of funk and the founder of the Parliament-Funkadelic MOB, taking the sonic innovations of James Brown and Sly Stone to both outer space AND Neptune while selling millions of records and concert tickets in the process. Quiet as its kept, however, George Clinton's initial approach to the ladies was crooning (when he wasn't cutting hair) as the leader of a standup vocal group he formed in `55 called The Parliaments, emulating the doo wop and love songs that were popular when he was in diapers (well...he STILL wears those on occasion).

The doors open at 8:00 and tickets are $33. For more information on upcoming Orange Peel shows check here.

HATCH Asheville starts this weekend

2010-04-13T13:12:00.004-04:00

The second year of HATCH Asheville starts this weekend with a number of panels, workshops and events open to the public. What is HATCH? It is a program that provides mentorship, education, inspiration and recognition to the next generation of creative innovators. The focus is on creative industries and how to best leverage creative professions to impact the community and the planet in a positive and sustainable way. HATCHfest brings together luminaries in the arts and entertainment world to serve as mentors to groundbreaking new creative talent. They host panels, workshops, keynotes, exhibits, networking parties, and mentoring sessions for four days in the heart of downtown Asheville.

One of the highlights for 2010 is the participation of the John Lennon Educational Tour Bus and acclaimed singer/songwriter Matt Morris. Matt released his chart-topping debut album, “When Everything Breaks Open” in January. The record has received critical acclaim, radio airplay and has landed him on several TV shows including The Ellen DeGeneres Show, the George Lopez Show and David Letterman. Matt’s has toured extensively with such artists as the Indigo Girls and Joan Osborne and has been featured at the Bonnaroo and Austin City Limits Music Festivals. Matt is one of music’s most renowned songwriters. His songs have been performed by Justin Timberlake, Christina Aguillera and Kelly Clarkson.

For a full schedule of events visit here. If you are traveling from out of town and need a place to stay visit here.

ActionFest comes to Asheville

2010-04-12T15:58:00.006-04:00

It's going to be a big weekend in Asheville. ActionFest kicks off this Thursday and there are event scheduled each day through Sunday. What is ActionFest? It's a first of its kind film festival dedicated to the action movie genre, and its happening right here in the beautiful city of Asheville. There will be 30 new movies and several world premieres to see and one of the more exciting events planned is the closing night ceremony where Chuck Norris will be present to receive a life time achievement award.

Check out the official ActionFest site for a full schedule of movies and event times. Also be sure to head out to the Carolina Cinema this Saturday at 3:00PM for a special aerial stunt show. It's going to be explosive!

The Doubletree Biltmore Hotel is offering a special rate for anyone who is traveling out of town and it is conveniently located just down the street from the theater and special events. If that hotel is booked try one of our other great hotels.

Click here for the trailer.

Orange Peel special for friends of Biltmore Park

2010-04-07T11:19:00.004-04:00

The Orange Peel is offering friends at Biltmore Park buy-one-get-one free tickets to two shows this month! Choose between the Corey Smith concert April 8th or to the Temper Trap show April 10th! Click here to hear a sample of Corey Smith; click here to hear the Temper Trap (you may recognize them from the Diet Coke commercial!).

This offer is limited to the FIRST 8 RESPONDERS for each show, so please reply quickly if you want to be guaranteed a spot! Send your request to liz@theorangepeel.net with your name, email address, and affiliation with Biltmore Park (resident, retail tenant, etc) You will receive an email confirmation with instructions for picking up your free ticket!

David Sedaris in Asheville April 16, 2010

2010-03-22T12:13:00.004-04:00

Celebrated author and humorist David Sedaris will be speaking in Asheville at the Thomas Wolfe Auditorium on Friday, April 16 2010 starting at 8:00pm. David's writing style is best explained by his publicist (see below).

David Sedaris may well be the closest thing the literary world has these days to a rock star. His speaking engagements are now consistently standing-room-only, a far cry from his early days as a housecleaner in New York City. Sedaris made his comic debut recounting his strange-but-true experiences of his job as a Macys elf clad in green tights, reading his SantaLand Diaries on National Public Radios Morning Edition. His sardonic wit and incisive social critique have since made him one of Americas pre-eminent humor writers. The great skill with which Sedaris slices through cultural euphemisms and political correctness proves that he is a master of satire and one of the most observant writers addressing the human condition today. David Sedaris is the author of the bestsellers Barrel Fever and Holidays on Ice, as well as collections of personal essays, Naked and Me Talk Pretty One Day, both of which became immediate bestsellers. Sedaris and his sister, Amy Sedaris, have collaborated under the name The Talent Family and have written several plays which have been produced at La Mama, Lincoln Center, and The Drama Department in New York City. These plays include Stump the Host, Stitches, One Woman Shoe, which received an Obie Award, Incident at Cobblers Knob, and The Book of Liz, which was published in book form by Dramatists Play Service. His essays appear regularly in Esquire and The New Yorker. Sedaris original radio pieces can often be heard on This American Life, distributed nationally by Public Radio International and produced by WBEZ in Chicago. In 2001, David Sedaris became the third recipient of the Thurber Prize for American Humor. He was named by Time magazine as Humorist of the Year in 2001. His book Dress Your Family in Corduroy and Denim was published in June 2004, and an anthology of stories, Children Playing Before a Statue of Hercules: An Anthology of Outstanding Stories, edited by David Sedaris, was published in April 2005. In 2005, David Sedaris was nominated for two Grammy Awards for Best Spoken Word Album ("Dress Your Family in Corduroy & Denim") and Best Comedy Album ("David Sedaris: Live at Carnegie Hall").

Tickets for this show start at $32.50. You can purchase them through the Civic Center Box Office by calling (828) 259-5736.

If you are traveling from out of town to see the show and need a place to stay for the night, please check out one of these fine hotels.

Amina Figarova Sextet in Asheville

2010-02-24T13:39:00.003-05:00

On Sunday March 7th, starting at 7:00 p.m., the Diana Wortham theatre in downtown Asheville will be hosting a fantastic jazz sextet that you won't want to miss. Netherlands-based pianist Amina Figarova will lead her stellar Sextet in the kickoff concert of the Western North Carolina Jazz Series 2010. Featuring a cohesive three-horn front line of trumpet, tenor saxophone, and flute, Amina's group tours the globe.

Born in Baku, Azerbaijan, and now residing in Rotterdam, the Netherlands, pianist and composer Amina Figarova earns praise from every quarter as she tours with the Sextet which creates recordings featuring her imaginative compositions. Jazz bible JazzTimes magazine’s review of Amina’s Sextet’s 2008 recording, “Above the Clouds”, lauded her as “among the most important new composers to come into jazz in the new millennium. She makes a sextet sound like an orchestra.”

Many successful jazz pianists got their start, at early ages, studying classical music. Then jazz lures them away. A constant surprise is the verve and energy so many of these classically trained musicians bring to improvisation. Amina Figarova began as a child prodigy who was composing and playing piano at the age of three. She trained as a classical concert pianist at the Baku Conservatory in Azerbaijan, followed by studies in jazz performance at the Rotterdam Conservatory and the Berklee College of Music in Boston. In 1998 she was invited to study at the Thelonious Monk Jazz Colony in Aspen, Colorado.

To hear some samples of this artist visit the site for WNC Jazz Society. Tickets are $35. If you are traveling to Asheville we offer special packages through these great hotels.

Haiti Benefit Presented By The Orange Peel & Asheville Pizza

2010-02-16T11:14:00.005-05:00

In conjunction with Asheville Pizza and Brewing Company, the Orange Peel announces a screening of world musician Bela Fleck’s award-winning documentary “Throw Down Your Heart,” on Thursday March 5th at the Merrimon Avenue location, at 7pm.

The film follows multiple Grammy Award-winning banjo player Bela Fleck as he travels through four African countries exploring their musical traditions and recording his new album, also entitled "Throw Down Your Heart," released in 2009. Along the way, Fleck searches for the banjo's early roots, which may have traveled along via the slave trade to America.

The album, released last year, just won 2 Grammy’s – for Best Pop Instrumental Performance and Best Contemporary World Music Album – at the 2010 Grammy Awards. The documentary won the Audience Award at the Vancouver International Film Festival and the SXSW Film Festival in 2008.

Tickets for this event are only $5, and all ticket sales, as well as 10% of the bar and food proceeds collected, will be donated to the American Red Cross to aid in their earthquake relief efforts in Haiti.

“We are psyched to partner with the Orange Peel on this event,” says Mike Rangel, owner and manager of Asheville Pizza and Brewing, “Viewers are getting a chance to see a wonderful film, knowing that they’re also doing something to help the victims of the disaster in Haiti.”

The following week, the Orange Peel is bringing the star of the film, Bela Fleck, to Asheville on Friday March 12th for his Bela Fleck: The Africa Project tour, featuring African musicians Bassekouye Kouyate & Ngoni Ba, and Anania Ngoliga with Guitarist John Kitime.

Tickets for the film are available in advance through the Orange Peel box office on Biltmore Avenue or online. They will also be available beginning the day of show, March 4th, at the Merrimon Avenue location of the Asheville Pizza Company.

Tickets for Bela Fleck’s concert at the Orange Peel March 12th are still available and can be purchased at the Orange Peel box office, or online.

For more information about other upcoming Orange Peel events please visit here.

Dine to Be Kind in Asheville

2010-02-16T09:23:00.004-05:00

On Tuesday, February 23, join Animal Compassion Network and for the 7th Annual Dine to Be Kind event. Dine in or take out from any of the participating restaurants and they will donate a percentage of the day's dining to ACN's Spay/Neuter Assistance and Foster Programs. Since 2000, ACN's Betty Fund has funded the spay/neuter surgery for 10,000 pets belonging to low-income families, and the demand on the program has never been higher.

Please click on the restaurants below to find menus, directions, or hours!

Apollo Flame Bistro * Asheville Ale House * Battery Park Book Exchange * Blue Sky Cafe * Brixx Wood Fired Pizza * Bone-a-fide Bakery * Cafe Azalea * cafe ello * Cats & Dawgs * Charlotte Street Grill & Pub * Chorizo * Corner Kitchen * chai pani * Cucina 24 * Curras Dom * Dripolator Coffeehouse * Doc Chey's Noodle House * Filo Pastries * Frank's Roman Pizza * Green Sage Coffeehouse & Cafe * Grove Park Inn: Blue Ridge Dining Room, Horizons, Sunset Terrace Chophouse * Kilwin's Chocolate, Fudge & Ice Cream * Laughing Seed Cafe * Lenny's Sub Shop * Madison's Black Mountain * The Market Place * Morning Glory Cafe * Mellow Mushroom * Mountain Brew Cafe & Bakery * Nine Mile Inc * Oakie Dokie Smokehouse * Pomodoros * Province 620 * Rise 'N Shine Cafe * Rosetta's Kitchen * Roux at The Hilton * Sazerac * Sante Wine Bar * Sunny Point Cafe * Sunnyside Cafe * 12 Bones Smokehouse * Thai Basil * The Hop Ice Cream * Tomato Jam * Urban Burrito * Usual Suspects * Waggers Dog Depot * Wayne's Restaurant * Well-Bred Bakery & Cafe * West End Bakery * Wine Studio of Asheville * Wild Wing Cafe

Help us spread the word! Download an event flier from here and post in your office, school, church, community center, grocery store and any place else you go. Interested in being a Dine to Be Kind Advocate? Email Kelly Stoner for details: kellystoneracn@gmail.com.

Also, through the entire month of February, Sensibilities Day Spa will match any donations to ACN (up to $1000). Just bring your ACN donation to 59 Haywood Street or Two Town Square Boulevard in Biltmore Park, and help twice as many cats and dogs in need. Thank you, Sensibilities Day Spa, for all of the support you have given ACN and our rescues over the years!

If you're traveling from out of town, check out the Hilton which will be participating in this year's event.

Destino comes to Asheville

2010-02-07T14:48:00.003-05:00

On Friday February 12 at 8:00 pm, Diana Wortham Theatre will host Destino, a trio of tenors, that fuse pop and opera to create what they dub as "popera". The three tenors had their own solo careers when they decided to merge their talents to form one group. They have been becoming an international success story ever since. From their website:

Destino is fast becoming Canada`s classical crossover sensation following the recent Canadian release of their critically acclaimed CD FORTE. Classically trained, award winning professional tenors Paul Ouellette, Joey Niceforo and Hans Munoz form Destino. Before collaborating as a trio, the three Canadian vocalists were in established solo careers, performing pop, opera, gospel, soul, R&B, jazz and musical theatre. Destino has received critical acclaim, selling out concert halls in Canada and the U.S. Their music is best described as 'popera' or 'pop with an opera flair,' that is sweeping musical charts thanks to internationally renowned recording artists like Andrea Bocelli, Josh Groban, Mario Frangoulis, Russell Watson, and many others.

If you want to attend this show please visit the Diane Wortham Theatre website for more information. If you need a place to rest your head when the show is over check out one of these great Asheville hotels.

WNC Bridal Party

2010-02-02T16:47:00.002-05:00

If you're planning an Asheville wedding then this is one bridal party you do not want to miss. Forget those tacky, stuffy, and old-fashioned wedding events! Grab a bottomless martini on your way in and meet the people who will plan your special day.

Join us at the Doubletree Biltmore Hotel in Asheville on Friday, February 5th at 7 p.m. for WNC magazine’s The Bridal Party, a can’t miss opportunity to consult with Western North Carolina’s top wedding professionals in our area’s most exclusive event for those planning the ultimate mountain ceremony.

A one-of-a-kind fashion show, industry expo, and fabulous party all in one, The Bridal Party is essential for those getting married as well as anyone looking to host a top-tier event.

Five unique boutiques at the event allow you to meet one-on-one with the region's most distinguished wedding professionals as you move from room to room sipping martinis. Each salon has its own theme and features a group of five to seven professionals from different areas of the industry.

Tickets are $20 each if purchased by February 4th. Tickets purchased after February 4th or at the door are $30 each. Unbeatable hotel packages are available through Doubletree Biltmore Hotel and include admission to The Bridal Party as well as other exciting amenities.

This is also a great event for friends, family, and even grooms. Lure them in with the promise of great food and drink and wow them with an event like no other!

A VERY SPECIAL RAFFLE…

In addition to the great party and access to exclusive resources, a portion of the evening’s proceeds go toward The Health Adventure, which increases science literacy through participation, exploration, and fun. For more information on the raffle, please visit here.

Snow in Asheville - Be Prepared

2010-01-29T11:32:00.003-05:00

The weather forecast is calling for more snow in the Asheville area. The last big storm that came through casued wide spread power outages and crippled the highways leaving motorists stranded for hours. This next event is not expected to be as bad due to lack of strong winds which bring down trees onto power lines. However, with predictions of snow accumulation nearing the 12" mark it would be wise to make sure you take the proper precautions.

AROUND THE HOUSE:
An ice storm will take down power lines knocking out electricity. Check battery powered equipment before the storm arrives. Have extra blankets on hand. Ensure that each member of your household has a warm coat, gloves or mittens, hat, and water-resistant boots. Dress for the conditions when outdoors. Wear several layers of light-weight, warm clothing; layers can be removed to prevent perspiring and subsequent chill. Outer garments should be tightly woven, waterproof and hooded. For the hands, mittens, snug at the wrists, offer better protection than fingered gloves.

Assemble a disaster supplies kit containing: First Aid Kit and essential medications, Battery-powered NOAA Weather Radio and portable radio, flashlight, and extra batteries Canned food and nonelectric can opener. If there are infants at home, make sure you have enough infant formula or baby food. Include food that requires no cooking in case of power failure. Make sure pets and animals have shelter and a water supply, i.e bottled water. Check your supply of heating fuel. Fuel carriers may not be able to reach you due to ice or snow covered roads. Be careful when using fireplaces, stoves or space heaters. Proper ventilation is essential. Don't use charcoal; it gives off deadly amounts of carbon monoxide. Keep flammable material away from space heaters and do not overload electric circuits. Don't kill yourself shoveling snow. It is extremely hard work for anyone in less than prime physical condition. It can bring on a heart attack, a major cause of death during and after winter storms.

AUTOMOBILES:
Your automobile can be your best friend or worst enemy during winter storms. Have your car winterized by having the following items checked: ignition system, heater, brakes, wipers, cooling system, defroster, oil, exhaust, fuel system, battery, lights and tires. Don't forget your washer solvent. Keep moister out of your fuel tank, by using the appropriate additives to your fuel. If you travel often during the winter, carry a winter storm kit in your car with the following items: flashlight, compass, windshield scraper, maps, sand, paper towels, chains, blankets, warm sleeping bags, matches/candles, high calorie non-perishable foods, booster cables, extra warm clothing and rain gear. Never carry gasoline in containers other than the car's gas tank. Winter travel by car is serious business! If the storm exceeds or tests your driving ability, seek available shelter immediately! Plan your travel. Try not to travel alone and drive in convoy when possible. Drive carefully and defensively. Pump the brakes when trying to stop on snow or ice covered roads.

IF YOU DO GET STUCK, stay with your car. Do not try to walk to safety. Tie a brightly colored cloth (preferably red) to the antenna for rescuers to see. Start the car and use the heater for about 10 minutes every hour. Keep the exhaust pipe clear so fumes won't back up into the car. Leave the overhead light on when the engine is running so that you can be seen. Keep moving your arms and legs to maintain blood circulation and to stay warm. Keep one window away from the blowing wind slightly open to let in air.

ON THE FARM
Move animals to sheltered areas. Shelter belts, properly laid out and oriented, are better protection for cattle than confining shelters, such as sheds. Haul extra feed to nearby feeding areas. Have a water supply available. Most animal deaths in winter storms are from dehydration.

Preparing for these weather events is essential. If you live or work in the Asheville area have to be at work no matter what or if your power goes out and you need a warm place to stay then ask for the inclement weather rate at one of our five hotels in the area.

Les Ballets Trockadero

2010-01-13T17:26:00.002-05:00

Asheville will be getting a special treat this month as Les Ballets Trockadero, a world renowned ballet troupe, will be performing at the Thomas Wolfe Auditorium on Friday January 22nd at 7:30 pm. Formed in 1974, Les Ballets Trockadero (the Trocks as they're affectionately called) is self described as "dancing the fine line between high art and high camp."

From their website: It is a Company of professional male dancers performing the full range of the ballet and modern dance repertoire, including classical and original works in faithful renditions of the manners and conceits of those dance styles. The comedy is achieved by incorporating and exaggerating the foibles, accidents, and underlying incongruities of serious dance. The fact that men dance all the parts--heavy bodies delicately balancing on toes as swans, sylphs, water sprites, romantic princesses, angst-ridden Victorian ladies--enhances rather than mocks the spirit of dance as an art form, delighting and amusing the most knowledgeable, as well as novices, in the audiences.

Tickets for this show are $20-55 and are available at the Civic Center Box Office or by calling 828.225.5887. More information can be found at Asheville Bravo Concerts.

Traveling from out of town? Check out these quality hotels.

Asheville's Downtown Market Now Open For Business

2009-12-29T15:46:00.004-05:00

The Asheville Downtown Market is a new shopping destination in downtown Asheville. Located on South French Broad this 42,000 square foot building was once home to a photography plant and a sewing factory, but now you will find the space filled with craft vendors, artists, a coffee shop and even a grocery store.

One Bazaar Community is the self described style of this new market and one stroll down the different vendor isles confirms the truth of that statement. With such an eclectic mix of booths, shoppers can find an array of items for sale.

The grocery store is Amazing Savings and will save you lots of money on your grocery bill. This is their second store in the Asheville area, the original being located on Sweeten Creek Rd. This fills a whole in downtown Asheville seeing as how both the Grove Arcade market and the CVS have recently closed.

Future businesses that are moving into the space include a downtown recycling center, a world food court (still in the idea stage) and perhaps your business. With vendor prices as low as $15 a day for a booth you would be remiss not to take advantage of the low overhead. They are also offering co-op vendor space so you can join forces with your colleagues and save money.

The market is currently open Friday - Sunday, 10:00 am - 5:00 pm. For more information you can call 828-255-8858 or visit them on Facebook.

If you're visiting the Asheville area and need a place to stay please check out these great hotels.

The Diamond Ball Rings In The Asheville New Year

2009-12-21T11:04:00.003-05:00

The third annual Diamond Ball hosted by the Junior League of Asheville will take place starting at 9:00 PM Thursday, December 31st 2009 at the Doubletree Biltmore Hotel in Asheville, NC. Sponsored by Wick & Greene Jewelers, the event is a fundraiser for community programs including ABCCM, Child Abuse Prevention Services, Child First, Public Affairs and YWCA.

Event tickets are $100 per person and raffle tickets for the 1-carat Lazare diamond are $25 (need not be present to win). Please call 828.254.5608 or visit juniorleagueasheville.org to purchase event and raffle tickets, which will be available from now until through the night of the event.

For more information on the event location please visit here.

Ken & Tammy's Christmas Party at the Doubletree Biltmore

2009-12-17T12:57:00.004-05:00

With the holidays right around the corner, there are some families still in need of assistance to make Christmas happen for their kids. Together with Ken and Tammy from Asheville's Mix 96.5, the Doubletree is helping make this season a little brighter for these families. All are welcome to come join in the festivities on December 22, 2009 from 6:00PM to 8:00PM.

Every child deserves a visit from Santa! Hence the first ever “Ken and Tammy’s Christmas is for Kids Extravaganza!” It will be a night of fun, food, and of course Christmas presents for children up to 12 years old who otherwise would face a sad holiday.

Doubletree is now accepting toys for the event. Everyone who brings in a toy is invited to have a fresh-baked chocolate chip cookie! Doubletree is located at 115 Hendersonville Rd. in Asheville. See a map.

Please help us keep the Christmas magic alive these children. If you need a place for your holiday party, or want to stash the out-of-town visitors somewhere other than your house, please give the Doubletree Biltmore Hotel your patronage.

Sparrow Spa Open House Tonight

2009-12-10T14:31:00.003-05:00

CLICK ON IMAGE TO ZOOM IN

Sparrow Spa in Hilton Asheville Biltmore Park is hosting an open house tonight. It is open to everyone. Wine, food and savings on spa goodies. You know you want to go. Here's a map.

Relay for Life Event at Doubletree Biltmore Hotel

2009-12-09T16:09:00.004-05:00

Relay For Life of Biltmore Park invites you and your family to join them for Cookies with Santa at the Doubletree Hotel Biltmore/Asheville on Sunday, December 13th from 3-5:00pm. Get your photo taken with Santa, and enjoy delectable desserts, hot cocoa and more! Cancer survivors and caregivers will receive a special gift.

This free event is generously sponsored by the Doubletree Hotel, located at 115 Hendersonville Road, Asheville. Click here for a map.

To learn more about the upcoming Biltmore Relay For Life event click here.

Downtown Asheville Fireworks

2009-12-07T11:37:00.003-05:00

For a second year in a row you can watch the fireworks over downtown Asheville every Saturday in December through the 19th. The event is called Sizzle at Seven and is very popular among visitors and locals to the Asheville area. Each weekend the show is a little different and a little bigger than the last. The show goes on no matter what the weather outside may be.

Asheville has long been known as a destination for holiday shoppers. There are countless boutiques and shops all over the Asheville area that offer something a little different than your typical retail chain store.

Be sure to check out these great stores for your shopping list.

Biltmore Park shops:

-Dwell - for stylish home furnishings
-Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory - for the sweet tooth
-Biltmore Grande Regal Cinema - for movie gift certificates
-Sensibilities - for spa Treatment gift certificates
-REI - for the person who loves the outdoors

Downtown Asheville:

-The Loft - for the person who's hard to shop for.
-Mountain Lights - for unique candle and lighting options.
-Kress gallery - for a more artistic gift.
-Union - for stylish clothing from a hip boutique.

Asheville Mall:

Stores include: Banana Republic, Sears, Dillards, Abercrombie & Fitch, Buckle, Aeropostale, American Eagle, JC Penney, Hot Topic, Game Stop and many more.

If you need a place to stay during these holiday festivities please check out these fantastic accommodations.

Thanksgiving at roux in Asheville

2009-11-24T10:37:00.005-05:00

For travelers and residents of Asheville who don't already have holiday dinner plans this year, you should visit “roux” for a truly inspired Thanksgiving. A four course dinner will be the perfect compliment to a memorable holiday celebration. Executive Chef Randy Dunn has crafted an innovative menu with selections from traditional roasted turkey to spiced apple and pork roulade with jalapeño-apricot marmalade. For a more detailed selection of menu items, please review the attachment. You can make reservations by calling 828-209-2715. “roux” is located inside the Hilton Asheville Biltmore Park at 43 Town Square.

4 Course Select Menu
- Seating from 11:00am until 4:00pm

1st Course
Butternut Squash Bisque, Toasted Pumpkin Seeds, Crème Fraîche

Smoked Mussel and Saffron Bisque

Jumbo Lump Crab Cake, Grilled Spicy Napa Slaw

BBQ Duck Corn Fritter, Sun Dried Cherries, Balsamic Onions, Gorgonzola

2nd Course
Grilled Vegetable and Chevre Terrine, Mixed Greens, Balsamic Reduction

Arugula Salad, Roasted Beets, Walnuts, Bacon, Spicy Maple Vinaigrette

3rd Course
Roasted Acorn Squash
Wild Rice and Cranberry Stuffing, Corn Pudding, Grilled Broccolini

Traditional Roasted Turkey
Marble-Smashed Potatoes, Cornbread Stuffing, Green Beans, Cranberry Chutney

Grilled Black Angus Filet
Smoked Cheddar and Horseradish Au Gratin, Grilled Asparagus, Black Currant Demi

Carolina Coastal Wild Striped Bass
Pumpkinseed Crusted, Butternut Risotto, Grilled Broccolini, Vanilla-Bean Soy Cream

Spiced Apple and Pork Roulade
Spaghetti Squash, Green Beans, Jalapeno-Apricot Marmalade

4th (and certainly the best)Course
Pumpkin Cheesecake, Caramel Sauce, Candied Walnuts

Cranberry-Butterscotch Bread Pudding, Crème Anglaise

If reading that menu made you hungry then book your reservations today by calling 828-209-2715. Seating is limited and is filling up quickly. If you are in need of a hotel reservation for this holiday weekend please visit here. We look forward to having you at our place for Thanksgiving!

The Blue Ridge Parkway turns 75

2009-11-11T11:12:00.004-05:00

This month marks the 75th anniversary of the Blue Ridge Parkway, which is noted for its scenic beauty. It runs for 469.1 miles (755 km) through the famous Blue Ridge Mountains, a major mountain chain that is part of the Appalachian Mountains. Land on either side of the road is maintained by the National Park Service and in some stretches, by the United States Forest Service.

Begun during the administration of President Franklin D. Roosevelt, the project was originally called the "Appalachian Scenic Highway". Work began on September 11, 1935 and took over fifty-two years to complete, the last stretch (near the Linn Cove Viaduct) was completed in 1987 around Grandfather Mountain. The Parkway runs from the southern terminus of Shenandoah National Park's Skyline Drive in Virginia to U.S. 441 at Oconaluftee in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park near Cherokee, North Carolina.

Special events are planned throughout the weekend starting this Thursday. Below is a list of activities you can attend.

Thursday, November 12th at 6:00 PM
“Natural Resource Stewardship — An American Indian Legacy and Model for our Future,”
Located at Cherokee High School Auditorium.

Friday, November 13th at 12:00 PM
Passing of the torch from Great Smoky Mountains National Park to the Blue Ridge Parkway
Located at Ravensford Overlook, milepost 467. Park at the Cherokee Transit Lot on U.S. 441 and take a shuttle to the overlook.

Starting at 12:00 PM
Guided tours of the southern end of the parkway from the Museum of the Cherokee Indian , 589 Tsali Blvd., Cherokee. Cost is $20 and includes a box lunch. Reservations required by calling 497-3481.

Saturday, Novermber 14th from 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Parkway History Day
Located at the Folk Art Center, Milepost 382.

Starting at 7:00 PM
Blue Ridge Parkway 75th Anniversary Benefit Concert, featuring Nanci Griffith and The Blue Ridge Bluegrass All-Stars, Doyle Lawson, Sammy Shelor, Bryan Sutton, Tim Surrett, Jim Van Cleve and the Warriors of AniKituhwa. Hosted by David Holt.
Located at the Thomas Wolfe Auditorium in Asheville. Tickets start at $35 and are available at the Asheville Civic Center Box Office, online at Ticketmaster or by calling 800-745-3000.

If you are traveling to the Asheville area for the event please check out these great hotels.

Christmas at Biltmore begins this week in Asheville

2009-11-03T11:30:00.005-05:00

Christmas at the Biltmore House officially begins Friday, November 6th through January 3rd, 2010 in Asheville, NC.

The Biltmore Christmas celebration is a tradition that spans 114 years. Although George Vanderbilt moved into Biltmore House in October 1895, the house did not officially open to guests until Christmas Eve of that year. Great efforts were made to ensure all would be ready by this special day. Mr. Vanderbilt was still a bachelor during the first Biltmore Christmas and his mother, Maria Louisa, presided as hostess. Correspondence between Vanderbilt and his staff indicates that planning was intensive and no detail was left unattended.

Did you know that when the holiday ends Biltmore recycles the live trees used during the season? Asheville Treecyclers will make wooden Christmas ornaments out of the trunk. Look for these decorations to be available next Christmas!

There are a variety of activities planned. Here is a list of all the important things you should know while planning your visit.

River Bend Farm Holiday Season Activities:

-Santa Claus visits the River Bend Farm for photo opportunities and to hear wish lists!
Saturday and Sundays from November 7- December 20
12:30-4:30

-Farm Life Demonstrators/Crafter’s Corner
Watch skilled crafters demonstrate traditional crafts in the River Bend Farm
1:00pm- 5:00pm daily

-Blacksmith, Woodworker, Butter Churning, Quilting, Jewelry, Weaving
Turn of the Century Games: Children and adults can experience games that were common during the days of the Vanderbilts.

Holiday Dining Options:

Thanksgiving Day, November 26, 2009

-Bistro: Advance reservations by phone required at the restaurant (225-6230)
12:00pm- 7:00pm
$45 per person

-Deerpark Restaurant: Advance reservations by phone required at the restaurant (225-6260)
11:00am – 6:00pm
$36.95 (adults); $19.95 (youth); $11.95 (ages 5-9)

-Stable Café Dining: Reservations are available, walk-ins accepted. (225-6370)
11:00am- 4:00pm
$12.00-$27.00 (entrees)

-The Dining Room at the Inn on Biltmore Estate: Not available to daytime guests for Thanksgiving Day.

Biltmore Hours of Operation:

November 6- January 2, 2009
Biltmore Admission’s Gate for daytime: 8:30am – 4:00pm
Biltmore Winery: 12:00pm – 9:00pm
Candlelight Evening visits begin as early as 5:30pm. Evening visit requires separate ticket that is date and time specific.
CHRISTMAS DAY HOURS: 10:30AM – 3:00PM

Biltmore Ticket Prices:

Nov 6, 2009 – Jan. 3, 2010
Gate Price: $60 daily (1-day ticket)
Online Price: check here.
Guests can upgrade daytime tickets to include evening visit for only $10. Guests need to check with a Biltmore Guest Service Station for availability.

Biltmore House Reservations:
As we move into the holiday season, the estate will become more popular and guest volume will be higher. Having a time to go into the house prevents guests from standing outside in line to get into the house. Guests can obtain a time to enter Biltmore House at the Stable Archway to the right of the house. Then, guests can visit the Conservatory, shops, restaurants, or even the Winery prior to visiting Biltmore House. All guests visiting Biltmore House must have a reservation.

Hotel packages are also available.

I-40 Detour Information

2009-11-01T15:38:00.004-05:00

For anyone traveling via I-40 through Western North Carolina please be aware that a rock slide has occurred near the Tennessee / North Carolina border that is blocking traffic in both directions. While the DOT is working diligently to remove the debris they are having to be cautious due to the fact that the mountain is still moving. Early estimates say this could take anywhere from three to eight months to get the road open again.

Asheville is still easily accessible from all points north, east and south. From the west there are two detour routes in place as shown on the map below. These detour routes will take drivers through some of the most picturesque scenery in Western North Carolina. They will add some time to your trip so just be sure you plan accordingly before heading this direction.

For up to date information please visit the I-40 Detour website. For those who are traveling through the area and need a place to rest before taking on the extra drive, we can help.

Halloween 2009 in Asheville

2009-10-27T16:48:00.003-04:00

Halloween is just a week away, and Asheville is filled with spooky fun for all ages. Check out our Halloween events and activities:

Only-in Asheville Halloween Fun
• “The Legend of Tommy Hodges” walking outdoor mystery, October 23 and 24
• LaZoom Haunted Halloween Bus, October 29-31
• “Skeered,” an Evening of Local Ghost Stories, October 29-31
• Appalachian Ghost Stories Beneath the Stars, October 30
• Appalachian Mountain Mysteries, October 30
• Spirits of Asheville Masquerade, October 31
• Haunted History & Murder Mystery Ghost Trolley Tour
• Haunted Asheville Pub Crawl
• Haunted Asheville Ghost Tour
• Haunted Asheville Trolley Tour
• Haunted Biltmore Biltmore Village Tour

Family Friendly Halloween Events
• Halloween Dog Event, October 24
• Howl-O-Ween at the WNC Nature Center, October 24
• Harvest Hoe Down, October 31
• Cold Mountain Corn Maze, open through October 31
• Castle in the Corn Maze, open through October 31
• Blue Ridge Corn Maze, open through November until harvest

Grown-Up Halloween Fun
• Pinhead’s Graveyard through November 1
• The Woman in Black at Flat Rock Playhouse through November 1
• Screening of “The Rocky Horror Picture Show” with the Montford Park Players, October 24 and 31
• Screamfest at the Grove House, October 27-November 1
• Graveyard Book Party at Malaprop’s Bookstore, October 31

Thank you to Explore Asheville for this comprehensive list.

Need a place to stay? Try one of these haunted houses, er... I mean hotels. We don't have ghosts, but we do have candy!

Biltmore Park Concert Series

2009-09-29T13:56:00.010-04:00

During the entire month of October, Biltmore Park is featuring live music every Saturday night from 7:00 - 9:00 PM in the park outside of Brixx Pizza. The schedule is as follows:

October 3rd - 96.5 House Band

October 10th - The Scenic Roots (special early show starts at 5PM) & The Firecracker Jazz Band

October 17th - The Caribbean Cowboys

October 24th - Robin Rogers

Admission to this event is free. Biltmore Park is located in South Asheville right off of I-26 at Long Shoals Rd. If you are traveling there is lodging available just steps away from the event at the brand new Hilton Asheville Biltmore Park hotel.

Oktoberfest in Asheville

2009-09-21T13:51:00.003-04:00

Asheville's first Oktoberfest will be held on Saturday, October 10 from 1-5pm on Wall Street in downtown Asheville.

“Our Oktoberfest will mix Bavarian traditions with Asheville’s eclectic vibe,” says Adrian Vassallo, event organizer and ADA treasurer. He adds, “With Asheville’s recent recognition as ‘Beer City USA,’ the timing couldn’t be more perfect to celebrate our local beer scene. Plus, Wall Street is an ideal venue for this event with its old world feel and original cobblestones.”

The event will feature beer tastings from local breweries including Highland Brewing, Asheville Brewing Company, Pisgah Brewing, Green Man Brewery, and French Broad Brewing Company. Many brewers are featuring seasonal ales for Oktoberfest, and will be on hand to discuss their beers.

Also, Wall Street restaurants Cucina 24, Jack of the Wood, and The Market Place will be preparing authentic German food fare served with local mustard from the Lusty Monk.

Entertainment will cross the Bavarian-Asheville divide as well with the traditional from The Stratton Mountain Boys and the eclectic from Asheville’s own The Goodies. The Stratton Mountain Boys have brought the haunting sounds of four alphorns, happy yodeling songs, shoe slapping dances, and lively spirited Polka music to audiences across the U.S for more than 30 years. The Goodies are the epitome of Asheville’s funky and diverse music scene playing a gypsy-style eclectic hard rock and funk. Their live performances are known for being theatric and vaudevillian.

The entertainment doesn’t stop there. Festival-goers can participate in one or more of the many fun contests including yodeling, a costume contest, a stein race, and more. Prizes will be awarded.

Tickets are $25 and include beer samples and a commemorative Oktoberfest glass. Tickets are available now at www.ashevilledowntown.org. Space is limited, so purchase early. If you are traveling to Asheville and need a hotel please check out one of these great places to stay.

LAAFF festival in Asheville celebrates it's 8th year

2009-09-02T09:21:00.003-04:00

The Lexington Avenue Arts & Fun Festival (LAAFF) will celebrate it's 8th year this Sunday, September 6th from 11:00AM to 9:00PM. Known for it's eccentric costumes (and personalities for that matter) the LAAFF festival provides entertainment for the entire family.

Musical performances are planned throughout the day. You can get your groove on to the always popular music of the Blue Rags, the wide ranging sounds of the Hillbillionair$ and a local favorite, and winner of the 2009 Battle of the Bands competition, Now You Seem Them. Here is the complete list of performers.

There will also be special events planned such as special priced LaZoom tours, an adults only comedy show presented by the Feral Chihuahuas and the ever popular bicycle jousting.

The LAAFF festival was created by the store owners on Lexington to help support and promote local creative entrepreneurship; to support and protect alternative culture and the culture of Asheville and Lexington Ave in particular; to promote right and responsible relationship with the environment and each other. This year's festival is presented by Arts 2 People, a non-profit social service organization devoted to promoting the role of the arts as an integral part of our culture by serving the entire community through arts outreach, bringing the arts to those in need of the healing power of art, supporting the careers of artists, and through community cultural development.

Visiting Asheille and need a place to stay? Try one of these great hotels.

Sneak Peek of the new Hilton Asheville - opening soon!

2009-08-04T11:27:00.013-04:00

The new Hilton Asheville Biltmore Park Hotel is scheduled to open within the month and once completed will be the greenest hotel in Western North Carolina. Located in the Biltmore Park neighborhood of south Asheville, the Hilton is working towards becoming a LEED (Leadership in Energy and Design) certified property.

This 165 room hotel is one of the first in the nation to utilize a large scale solar water heating system. This system will eliminate twenty five tons of carbon dioxide per year, which is the equivalent of planting 7,377 trees. Other sustainable elements included in the development of the Hilton are the use of CFL light bulbs, a linen reuse program, an airport shuttle that relies on alternative fuel, special parking for Hybrid vehicles and the use of only environmentally friendly cleaning products. Also, during the construction of the hotel they used building material consisting of low Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC) which will result in lower emissions of toxins from the building.

The hotel will offer guest rooms that are decorated with a modern utopian appeal designed to match the exciting surroundings of Biltmore Park. Each guest room offers a 37 inch TV, refrigerator, and various other creature comforts you would expect from a Hilton property. The bathrooms are appointed with floor-to-ceiling marble and an inviting glass enclosed shower. The executive suites are spacious and inviting. They boast luxurious bathrooms some feature Whirlpool tubs.

The entire hotel is 100% non smoking and will feature complimentary high-speed wired and wireless Internet. The hotel's ultra-modern fitness center contains Precor® cardio-theater equipment, an indoor lap pool and whirlpool. The Hilton Asheville will also be home to Sparrow Spa, a luxurious destination spa featuring natural, organic products and a full menu of relaxing and rejuvenating services.

The really convenient aspect of the Hilton's location is that guests can enjoy walking the shops and dining at the various restaurants of Biltmore Park. Local businesses include REI, Barnes & Noble, Sensibilities Day Spa, Reuters YMCA, PF Changs, Brixx Pizza, 131 Main, Roux, and more. There is also a stadium seating movie theater, the Regal Biltmore Grande 15, which is just a few steps away from the Hilton's front door.

For more information or to reserve a room you can visit here.

Bele Chere 2009 in Asheville

2009-07-19T14:21:00.003-04:00

It's that time again. Bele Chere 2009 begins Friday of this week in downtown Asheville. The event promises to be a little smaller this year, which is good in the sense that there are no ticketed events. All entertainment is 100% free to the public. There is also stronger emphasis on the local artists, musicians and businesses of Asheville. This is a welcomed effort on the the part of local organizers and citizens of Asheville. This lively street festival began 31 years ago as part of an effort to revitalize the downtown area and bring locals together. Today the vision of the festival has been realized as downtown is a vibrant city center with unique shops and restaurants.

Local and national vendors will be on hand with beautiful artwork and crafts. Metalwork, fabric, paint, ceramics, woodwork and a variety of other mediums will be featured throughout the festival.

There will be plenty of food and beverage vendors on hand. Two food court stations have been established. One area is for the 'Taste of Asheville' where local restaurants will be serving their favorite dishes. The other is for all of your favorite street festival foods such as corn dogs, cotton candy, candied apples, funnel cakes, etc. Alcohol is sold on Friday and Saturday, however Sunday is alcohol free.

There are four stages this year and the musical lineup includes some local favorites such as Stephanie's Id, Yo Mama's Big Fat Booty Band, Laura Blackley, Sons of Ralph, GFE and the young and very impressive band Skinny Legs and All. For a complete list you can visit the official site of the festival.

The event begins Friday, July 24th and goes until Sunday July 26th. Hotel rooms are still available for this weekend, but they are booking fast. You can make your reservation here.

Jazz in Asheville featuring Joey Calderazzo

2009-07-16T17:18:00.004-04:00

This Sunday, July 19 at 7:00PM the Western North Carolina Jazz Society presents the sounds of the Joey Calderazzo Quartet.

Pianist and composer Joey Calderazzo has carved a reputation as one of the most fearless and commanding of the new jazz generation. In addition to building an impressive recording and performing career as a leader, Joey has held the piano chair of one of the leading groups in jazz, the Branford Marsalis Quartet, for ten years. Previously he contributed similarly to the Quartet of the late, great, Michael Brecker for ten years.

The Society's pre-concert reception from 6:15-7:00 has a delicious new twist this year. Audience members are invited to enjoy a sampling of Frankie Bones Restaurant's American-Italian cuisine as they offer complimentary tastes of signature items from their lunch and dinner menu as well as specialties from the Chef. While there is no charge for these items, donations of cash or food for MANNA FOOD BANK will be appreciated. 100% of proceeds will go to MANNA. Beverages will also be available at a cash bar operated by Frankie Bones.

If you are traveling to Asheville you can take advantage of special packaging offers with Biltmore Farms Hotels. See you at the show!

Day In The Life Of Asheville

2009-07-15T11:36:00.007-04:00

From now until August 14th the Day In The Life Of Asheville (DITLOA) photography exhibit will be on display at the Pack Place library. This community photo project took place in May and over 200 photographers took part in documenting Asheville over a 36 hour period.

The exhibit contains 100 photos selected by three judges as well as a photographers choice photo that every participant could submit. The judges of the event were Marti Saltzman, Heff Wignall and George Schaub, all leading experts in the field of photography. There were a total of 890 photographs submitted for judging. You can view these images here.

During this same weekend the Citizen Camera project was also put into place by DITLOA volunteers. Disposable cameras were placed at various stations around Asheville asking whoever stumbled across it to take a picture. These were later collected and the images have been recorded here.

This is an annual event open to photographers of all skill levels.

Biltmore Summer Concert Series is almost here

2009-07-06T13:59:00.007-04:00

Summer is here and with it comes the Biltmore Summer Evening Concert Series in Asheville. This is the 13th year of this popular concert series. Many musical celebrities have graced the stage at Biltmore including Travis Tritt, KC & The Sunshine Band, Clay Aiken, Loretta Lynn, The Four Seasons, The 5th Dimension and many more. Each show takes place next to the Biltmore House on the South Terrace with the Blue Ridge mountains as a backdrop. There is no denying that Biltmore is one of the best outdoor venues for a concert in Western North Carolina.

This year's line up includes:

July 23 - Mercy Me

July 24 - ABBA The Music - A Tribute

July 25 - Bruce Hornsby & the Noisemakers

July 30 - An evening with Tom Jones

July 31 - Rick Springfield with special guests, Loverboy

Aug. 1 - The Oak Ridge Boys and Doc Watson & David Holt

All concerts begin at 8PM. For ticket information please call 866-336-1255 or book online. If you need a hotel reservation please visit here.

Asheville's River Arts District hosts a studio stroll this weekend

2009-06-10T10:54:00.003-04:00

For the 15th year in a row, the Asheville River District artists will be opening their doors this weekend for one of their bi-annual studio strolls. For two days the public can see the work of over 110 artists. This event is always very popular and is a great way to see the work of some of Asheville's best local artists.

This year, Asheville Historic Trolley Tours will be providing shuttle service to the event. For $5.00 you have hop on and off privileges all day. Drivers will provide narrative history during the ride. The Trolley stops at many hotels in the area.

The Studio Stroll is free and open to the public. Most studios are in walking distance of each other and there is plenty of free parking. There are also some great restaurants you can check out including the local favorite Twelve Bones, Clingman Cafe and Twin Cousins Kitchen.

If you're looking for a hotel in Asheville then Biltmore Farms Hotels can help.

Faces of Asheville

2009-06-09T10:50:00.003-04:00

Now showing at the Satellite Gallery in Downtown Asheville is a photo project two years in the making. The Faces of Asheville premiered last Friday with a large group in attendance at the opening. Jenny Bowen, the artist behind the camera, took hundreds of photos of the people that make Asheville so unique.

The project was designed to showcase the individuals that make up this great community. Participants spent about 20 minutes with Bowen during each shoot. Everyone was encouraged to bring an item of significance to help reflect their character in the photo. Everyone was also asked to write about their experiences in Asheville and how they would like to see the city grow over time. These stories along with the photos will be archived at the University of North Carolina Asheville library for future exhibitions.

Doing this project has been no easy task for Bowen. In 2007, after she had already started the project, her home was broken into and all of her computer and camera equipment was stolen. With the equipment went the initial photographs she had taken. However, the community believed so much in this project that they came together with funding to help her get started again. The payoff was evident this past week as the gallery opened it's doors to reveal the final product.

Everyone should go see this intriguing show while in town. If you're visiting Asheville and need a hotel room, visit here.

Huge Music Week in Asheville!

2009-06-08T10:05:00.009-04:00

This week is going to be great for all types of music fans as Asheville is about to jam with some of the most influential names in music.

This Tuesday, the Asheville Civic Center will play host to one of the largest jam bands ever. To the delight of many fans, Phish returns to the stage after a five year hiatus. Tickets for this event sold out immediately, but you can bet that it will not deter the thousands of people who did not get a ticket from coming to the venue. Anyone who has ever attended a Phish show knows that the band is only half of the action. The scene surrounding a concert has historically been huge. According to the Asheville Citizen Times, an earlier performance this year at Hampton VA, had 5,000 people without a ticket surround the venue. To prepare, Asheville streets are being blocked off to accommodate the possibility of such a large number of people. If you have tickets you need to come early!

However, it doesn't stop there. This Wednesday, Asheville is getting a surprise visit from the Beastie Boys! The show, which was announced just last week, also sold out within minutes of tickets going on sale. They will be playing at The Orange Peel, one of the top venues to see a show according to the Rolling Stone Magazine. All tickets purchased are at will call and cannot be transferred. That's bad news for scalpers, but even worse news for fans who hoped to get a ticket the night of the show. For the 900 fans who were lucky enough to score tickets then they will enjoy an intimate club show that only The Orange Peel can provide. This show is part of nine show series by the Beastie Boys and precedes next week's show at Bonnaroo. Coincidently, Phish will also be playing two shows at the same festival in Tennessee next week.

The week rounds out with a performance by the punk group X. The band that hails from Los Angeles had minimal mainstream success, but was considered very influential for the genre. They will also be playing at The Orange Peel this Thursday. The show starts at 8:00PM and tickets are still available.

Need a hotel room in Asheville. Biltmore Farms Hotels has what you need.

Annie Sellick to visit Asheville for a night of jazz singing

2009-05-25T16:34:00.003-04:00

Starting at 7:00 PM on Sunday, June 7th, the Diana Wortham Theatre will be hosting a youthful rising star in the world of jazz. Vocalist Annie Sellick is being presented by the WNC Jazz Society who specializes in bringing jazz greats to the Asheville area. They say that Annie connects to her listeners because of her inimitable style, the goal of all jazz musicians, a style featuring unique phrasing, a deeply relaxed, swinging pulse, and heartfelt emotion.

Annie has won a devoted following and earned rave reviews, including numerous “Best Jazz Artist” awards. A Nashville native, she has enjoyed performing world-wide during the last few years, with frequent stops on the USA’s west coast.

Annie’s third CD, “A Little Piece of Heaven” was recorded live in Los Angeles in 2005 and features the Gerald Clayton Trio with special guest Bruce Forman. It captures the free-spirited and playful quality that Annie exudes in live performance. Her impressive 2008 release features the Gerald Clayton Trio and the Jeff Hamilton Trio and is a project that she and renowned drummer Jeff Hamilton co-produced.

Annie’s jazz journey began auspiciously when she sat in with guitarist Roland Gresham's group at a club near her college. After her performance, the crowd rose to their feet cheering, and it was clear she had found her calling.

After working a year with that trio, she returned to her hometown, where she honed her skills at the Nashville Jazz Workshop. Within a few years of her debut, Annie had become a mainstay at the major jazz venues, worked with all of her favorite jazz artists there, including famed guitarist Bela Fleck, was profiled in every major Nashville paper, and gave a celebrated sold-out performance accompanied by the Nashville Symphony.

Annie is a regular member of and vocalist for the Nashville Jazz Orchestra, with whom she has recorded.

This performance is funded, in part, by a Grassroots Arts Program Grant of the North Carolina Arts Council, a state agency, and the Asheville Area Arts Council.

TICKETS:
· $22 members
· $30 non-members
· $10 students w/ID
· Memberships available at the door.
· Purchase a membership the night of show
to receive immediate discount towards member's ticket price.

Don't forget to join us at 6:15 pm for the pre-show to mingle with fellow jazz enthusiasts over refreshments and during the social hour in the Lower Lobby of the Theatre prior to the Annie Sellick performance. Wine, beer, water, soda and coffee sales along with a variety of desserts will be provided by Frankie Bones Restaurant. We hope to see you there!

If you're traveling from out of town don't forget about the special hotel packages being offered for the performance.

Asheville ties as winner of Beer City USA 2009

2009-05-18T10:16:00.002-04:00

An online poll conducted by the Examiner.com resulted in Asheville tying with Portland as the best beer city in America. The results were incredibly close. Charlie Papazian of the Examiner had this to say about this poll.

Who gets top honors? I’m honoring both Portland, Oregon and Asheville, North Carolina this year. They are number one in the east and number one in the west with about 6,000 votes apiece. What, no definitive Number 1 and Number 2? Correct. Is that a cop out? I don't think so, but of course beer drinkers are an opinionated group of individuals and may beg to differ.

If you're one of the many beer fans out there, you should check out Asheville to see for yourself why it was given top billing. You can look here for a list of places to visit while in town.

USA Today lists Asheville as a top five bargain destination

2009-05-18T10:02:00.006-04:00

Asheville was featured in a recent USA Today article focusing on traveling within a budget. Below is the excerpt from that article.
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Asheville earns top-five status by being an already affordable destination with new low-cost airline service. AirTran will begin flying between Orlando and Asheville starting June 11, with introductory fares of $69 one-way. You might also check flights into Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport (about an hour and thirty minutes away) and Charlotte Douglas International Airport (about two hours away) to compare fares if the lowest price is a priority.

You can also take advantage of the site's Asheville budget travel planner, with free activity ideas and more savings opportunities. Plus, Asheville is an ideal jumping-off point for a visit to the Blue Ridge Parkway, known as "America's Favorite Drive" and a can't-miss (and free) activity. For more information, the Asheville Travel Blog offers a current look at events and activities in town.
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Click here to start planning your Asheville vacation today!

Asheville featured in the Toronto Sun

2009-05-12T16:35:00.004-04:00

Asheville was recently featured in the Toronto Sun in an article that explored the High Country of Western North Carolina. Below is an excerpt of that article.
_____________________________________________

ASHEVILLE

On the way to Asheville, there are (at least) two places worth stopping.

- Mount Mitchell: It's the highest point in North America east of the Mississipi River. When I was there, it was closed because of a landslide. There are still detours but you can get there now by taking Hwy. 80 off the Blue Ridge Parkway. The main entry point is expected to re-open by mid-June. See virtualblueridge.com.

The second place to stop on the way to Asheville is the Blue Ridge Arts Center (blueridgeartscenter.com) where mountain crafts, both traditional and contemporary, are on display.

Now Asheville. Ahh, Asheville. It's Funky Town in the Mountains. It seriously reminds me of Key West in the '70s -- but with mountains instead of ocean -- before the super-rich took it over and destroyed it.

With about 75,000 people, Asheville is home to Billy Graham, seven colleges and two universities. So it has soul, no matter how you look at it -- but I think the colleges win.

Asheville makes every U.S. magazine's list of "Top 10 Places To Do This Or That," so get there quick -- before the super-rich take it over and ruin it.

DON'T MISS

- Biltmore Estate: Everyone goes there but I skipped it because self-important faux monuments bore me. But as it is the biggest privately owned house in North America (Loire chateau style, more than 250 rooms) you should probably go. Built by one of the Vanderbilt heirs in the 1890s, it's twice as big as Aaron Spelling's mansion in Hollywood. Go wild.

- The North Carolina Arboretum has 26 hectares of cultivated gardens and 15 km of forested trails.

- More to my taste is Sliding Rock, a natural 20-metre waterslide that plunges you into an ice-cold pool. It's loads of fun on a summer afternoon for $1 park admission fee. It's about 10 km down Hwy. 276 off the Blue Ridge Parkway, about an hour's drive south of Asheville.

- One of my favourite mountain places is Chimney Rock, a half-hour drive southeast of Asheville on Hwy 74. A filming location for 1992's Last of the Mohicans, it's a magnificent hiking area with great vistas. There's a 26-storey elevator cut through the rock if you don't feel up to hiking to the top. Some of the more spectacular paths will be closed for the spring while they are upgraded, but it's still well worth a visit.
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You can read the full story here.

May Day Festival Coming to Biltmore Village

2009-04-29T15:37:00.004-04:00

Historically May Day has marked the end of the winter season by celebrating the coming of Spring and Summer. It’s good-bye to cold, windy days and welcome to those wonderful warm, flowerful summer days. In the early 1900s, May Day was a community celebration of hope and joy, and, was popularly celebrated.

This year, Biltmore Village is re-establishing May Day as a special commemoration for everyone to enjoy.

The festivities will begin at 11:00 am on Saturday, May 2 with music and dancing around the May Pole in the Village Plaza. May Pole Dancers will circle the pole each holding colored ribbons attached to the pole and then retrace their steps to unravel the ribbons.

That will be followed at 12:00 by two bluegrass bands playing until 4:30 pm. First on the schedule is the Moore Brothers, featuring 11 year old Jacob and his 6 year old brother Isaac. Next will be the Southern Crescent Bluegrass band playing in their traditional bluegrass style. Bluegrass music has been specifically chosen because of its happy foot-stomping rhythms, and its origin in the hills of Appalachia.

During the afternoon, local a cappella singing groups will perform as they stroll through the Village. And back by popular demand, there’ll be carriage rides providing the feel of yesteryear.

Everyone who attends is urged to bring canned food items for a special May Day basket which will be donated to MANNA Food Bank.

Restoring the May Day celebration was inspired by a 1906 photo of a May Pole dance occurring at the Biltmore Village plaza and recounts of a 1905 New York Times article that brought to light a colorful May Day celebration in Historic Biltmore Village.

“The Village has a hundred plus year history of being one of Asheville’s focal points. Celebrating the transition from Winter to Spring and Summer seemed like a great way to continue that,” said Stan Collins, president of the Merchants Association.

Biltmore Village is conveniently located across the street from the Doubletree Biltmore and Sleep Inn Biltmore Hotels. If you're coming in from out of town you can find reservations here.

Asheville ranked the #2 small city arts and crafts destination!

2009-04-23T16:57:00.003-04:00

AmericanStyle Readers Name Asheville One of Nation’s Top Arts Destinations

Baltimore, Md. (April 17, 2009) — Exciting, reliable, budget-friendly locales captured readers’ hearts and votes as cities nationwide vied for top ranking in AmericanStyle magazine’s 12th annual Top 25 Arts Destinations poll.

For the second year, Asheville, N.C., with a storied crafts legacy dating to the turn of the century, held the No. 2 spot among small cities. Santa Fe, N.M., received top honors in the category, while Sedona, Ariz., placed third.

Once again, the winners’ list features a mix of traditional destinations and emerging arts scenes where galleries contribute to community revitalization.

“Remember the vital roles played by artists during the last recession,” said Wendy Rosen, publisher of AmericanStyle. “They moved in to dying Main Streets, shuttered factories and warehouse districts, and converted them into galleries and art scenes. Their murals, outdoor sculpture and other public art enchanted tourists and helped spark new investment. Artists led the way then, and they are leading the way now: Just look at what young artists have done to bring tourism to Manhattan’s Chelsea neighborhood, and how artists have made Asheville, N.C., a must-visit destination off the beaten path.”

“Tough economic times also make consumers conscious of where their products come from,” Ms. Rosen added. “Art lovers know they can make a positive impact by buying from local galleries and local artists, so their dollars recycle in the community and support homegrown talent. We all know that art and handcraft galleries are among the few remaining places where you can find authentic, made-in-America gifts and art products.”

With so large a selection of arts cities to choose from, readers will be itching to hit the road. Luxury travelers will not be able to resist destinations boasting premier museums, galleries and festivals, while “staycationers” will be pleased to find great art cities within driving distance.

AmericanStyle Top Arts Destinations in 2009

Small Cities (Populations of less than 100,000)

1. Santa Fe, N.M.
2. Asheville, N.C.
3. Sedona, Ariz.
4. Taos, N.M.
5. Saugatuck, Mich.
6. Key West, Fla.
7. Berkeley Springs, W.V.
8. Boulder, Colo.
9. Carmel, Calif.
10. Corning, N.Y.

Complete lists of all 25 winning cities in each category, plus tips for affordable travel and information about exciting arts destinations in the United States are featured on www.AmericanStyle.com and in the June issue of AmericanStyle, now on newsstands and at major booksellers across the country.

Jazz Master Kenny Barron comes to Asheville

2009-04-22T09:44:00.002-04:00

This Sunday, April 26, at 7:00 PM, you have an opportunity to watch the performance of one of the leading jazz musicians on the planet. Kenny Barron will be playing a solo piano concert at the Diana Wortham Theatre in downtown Asheville.

Come see the artist that Stan Getz claimed was "the other half of my heart." Barron's career included a stint with the legendary Dizzy Gillespie in which Barron declared, "From Dizzy...I gained a real appreciation for be-bop and Latin Music." Honors, awards and winning international jazz polls are commonplace for Kenny. His latest honor was receiving the Bank of New York Mellon Jazz 2008 Living Legacy Award at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.

Presented by the NC Jazz Society, this show will definitely be a crowd pleaser. There is a pre-concert reception from 6:15-7:00 in which audience members are invited to sample the American Italian cuisine of Frankie Bones Restaurant. Asheville vocalist Sharon LaMotte and pianist Bill Gerhardt will be performing during this reception. While there is no charge for the pre-concert event, donations of case or food for Manna Food Bank will be appreciated. 100% of proceeds will go to Manna. Beverages will also be available at a cash bar operated by Frankie Bones.

Special hotel packages are available through Biltmore Farms Hotels.

HATCHfest comes to Asheville for its East Coast Debut

2009-04-07T11:24:00.003-04:00

Next week ushers in a new event for Asheville. It’s called HATCHfest and it will run from April 15 – 19th. This event originated in Bozeman, Montana and for the first time it has moved east to the beautiful mountains of Western North Carolina.

So what is HATCHfest? It’s a festival that provides mentorship to young artists in the fields of film, music, photography, architecture, fashion, journalism, design & technology. It’s designed to connect the young innovators of tomorrow with the veterans of the arts communities.

With special events planned all over Asheville there are many opportunities to take part in this festival. HATCHfest Asheville's panels, workshops and educational presentations during the day are free and open to the public. Tickets to screenings, opening receptions and some other evening events and performances may have a minimal ticket cost.

The Mountain Express has a list of the mentors being featured at the festival. For more information please visit the HATCHfest website. If you’re traveling from out of town please be sure to stay at one of these fine hotels. Look for me at the festival. See you there!

Blue Ridge Roller Girls kick off their new season in Asheville

2009-04-06T11:19:00.003-04:00

The Blue Ridge Rollergirls had their season opening roller derby match against the Savannah Derby Devils this past weekend. The event took place at the Asheville Civic Center with an always interesting mix of Ashevillians. The all female team took to the flat track with one thing in mind, "to get down and derby". The team is comprised with many colorful characters, including Sugar Magmaulya, Jane Gretzky and Caslamity Jane. Team Blue Ridge outskated their rivals to win 180 - 87.

Proceeds from the ticket sales went to support Loving Food Resources, an organization that provides basic needs to people living with HIV/AIDS through food. Performances at the event included the barber shop quartet, Shakedown; the lively band, Shake it like a Caveman; as well as music from GFE's Cricket.

The next bout is scheduled for Saturday May 30th, starting at 7PM at the Asheville Civic Center. Tickets are $10 in advance and $12 at the door. If you're traveling to Asheville during that time you should check out the fun. Rooms are available at one of these great hotels.

Enjoy Easter Brunch in Asheville

2009-03-26T16:10:00.005-04:00

This Easter, let the team of the Doubletree Biltmore Hotel do all the work.

You and your family should join us for Easter brunch at the Doubletree Biltmore Hotel in Asheville, NC on April 12th, 2009. The event starts at 11:00AM and continues until 2:00PM. Our culinary team will be serving a wonderful menu including the following:

- Fresh muffins and pastries
- Roast leg of lamb
- Carved ham
- Belgian waffles
- Peel & eat shrimp
- Eggs, bacon and sausage
- Bagels, smoked trout and gravlox
- Pasta, cooked to order
And much, much more.

Other activities include egg painting, an egg hunt and a visit from the Easter Bunny. This event is open to the public and promises to be a lot of fun for the entire family.

The cost is $24.95 per person and only $12.95 for kids under 10.

For more information you can e-mail us at concierge@biltmorefarmshotels.com or call 828-771-2275 to make your reservation.

Asheville is alive with the sound of music

2009-02-24T11:17:00.007-05:00

There's a lot of great entertainment to be had in Asheville. Check out some of the upcoming events that you won't want to miss.

The Orange Peel Social Aid and Pleasure Club

There are some fantastic shows coming to the Asheville area over the next couple of months. Be sure to get your tickets early to enjoy the music of Ben Folds, Ani DiFranco, G. Love & Special Sauce, 311 and many more.

The Orange Peel was voted one of Rolling Stone magazine’s Top 5 Rock Clubs in the country. It is Asheville’s premier downtown live music club and is a smoke free facility that features a state of the art sound and lighting system.

Be sure to secure your hotel rooms with one of the Orange Peel’s official hotels to receive a discounted rate. These hotels and phone numbers are listed below.

Doubletree Biltmore Hotel 828.274.1800

Quality Inn & Suites Biltmore South 828.684.6688

Residence Inn Biltmore 828.218.3361

Sleep Inn Biltmore 828.277.1800

www.biltmorefarmshotels.com

www.theorangepeel.net

WNC Jazz Society presents the Christian Tamburr Quartet

The 2009 season of the Western North Carolina Jazz Society starts Sunday, March 8 at 7:00p. Come celebrate the new season and enjoy the sounds of Christian Tamburr, a vibrant and talented vibraphone player who recently completed a stint as a musical director for vocalist Julio Inglesias. Christian has performed as a guest artist with Dave Brubeck and opened for Harry Connick Jr. In 2009, he will begin his roll as director of a new Cirque du Soleil production. He will be accompanied by pianist Scott Giddens.

There is a special Jazz Society Package available for this show which includes a discounted hotel room, tickets to the show and a $50 gift certificate to Vincenzo's, Asheville's premier northern Italian, Continental restaurant. For more information on this package please visit http://www.biltmorefarmshotels.com/doubletree/offers-jazz_society.aspx.

For more information on the WNC Jazz Society please visit http://www.wncjazzsociety.org.

Asheville is the perfect winter getaway

2009-01-21T15:52:00.000-05:00

There are some great events coming up in Asheville over the next month. Be sure to check these out these special events and winter packages designed with you in mind. Come see us.

Chamber’s Culinary Affair

The Asheville Independent Restaurant Association and the Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce have come together to create a one-of-a-kind culinary evening in Asheville, a city that has become quite famous for its food and is considered a dining destination for many people. Now you can sample foods from a variety of local and independent restaurants in the Asheville area. Come join us at the Doubletree Biltmore Hotel for this special event. Ticket prices are $125, and the dress is black-tie optional. Proceeds benefit the Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce. The event is being held on Thursday, January 22, 2009. The schedule is as follows: 7:00 – 8:00 PM – Welcome cocktail hour. 8:00 – 10:00 PM – A four-course dinner is being served. 10:00 – 11:00 PM – Music and dancing. Tickets are available at any AIR restaurant or at the Chamber of Commerce.

Superbowl Sunday at the Doubletree:

Not sure where to watch the big game this year? Then you should come spend it with the Doubletree Biltmore Hotel in our Burghley Ballroom. We’ll be broadcasting Superbowl XLIII on three big screens, the largest being 220”. You’ve never see the game this big! Tailgate food and beverages will be available for purchase. Kickoff is set to begin at approximately 6:30 PM. This event is free to everyone we ask only that you RSVP to adams@biltmorefarmshotels.com.

Valentines Day special packages:

That special day is less than a month away and we have the perfect place for you to celebrate with the one you love. We are currently offering two specials for Valentine’s Day.

The Cupid Special:

This package includes 2 nights at the Doubletree Biltmore in an Executive Suite with Jacuzzi tub.
You have your choice of dinner at Vincenzo’s, Frankie Bones or Savoy.
Enjoy breakfast in bed with our in-room dining experience.
Red wine and chocolates waiting for you in your room.
An in room couples massage by Sensibilities Spa.

The hunk of burning love special:

This package includes two nights in a standard room at your choice of the Doubletree Biltmore, Sleep Inn Biltmore, Residence Inn Biltmore or Quality Inn & Suites Biltmore South.
You have your choice of dinner at Vincenzo’s, Frankie Bones or Savoy.
Red wine and chocolates waiting for you in your room.
An in room couples massage by Sensibilities Spa.

For more information or if you are interested in booking one of these packages please contact our package concierge at dholston@biltmorefarmshotels.com.

Asheville Holiday Getaway Never Looked Better

2008-12-15T13:27:00.000-05:00

Great news! Hotels.com just picked Asheville NC as a Top 10 Underrated City!

Asheville is especially attractive to discerning travelers this holiday season. Here are just a few remarkable reasons you should consider a holiday getaway in Asheville:

Asheville Seasonal Sizzle

Saturdays in December are filled with fun and festivities! The Asheville Seasonal Sizzle offers holiday concerts, live entertainment, free fireworks, and many fun opportunities to visit with Santa! Even local restaurants are in the holiday spirit, offering delicious seasonal appetizer specials. Check out the Seasonal Sizzle Schedule.

Christmas at Biltmore

America’s largest home becomes even more spectacular when adorned with beautiful holiday decorations such as wreaths, bows, poinsettias, evergreen garland, ornaments, tinsel and beading. Enjoy literally dozens of Christmas trees, including a magnificent 35-foot Fraser fir. Daytime and candlelight visits are available.

National Gingerbread House Display

Marvel at the imagination shown by contestants from across the country as they display their gingerbread architectural masterpieces at the Grove Park Inn. Strolling through these delightful creations is sure to lead to complete holiday enchantment. Gingerbread houses are on display through Jan. 11.

Don’t forget about the Asheville City Market Holiday Bash. And you already know that holiday shopping in downtown Asheville and Biltmore Village is second to none.

This is just a start. There’s so much more. Don’t miss your chance to visit Asheville and experience it all firsthand. It could be one of your best holidays ever!